Fence Calculator
Calculate how many posts and panels you need for your fence. Get material estimates, gate planning, and cost breakdown.
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Enter Your Fence Details
Enclose backyard for privacy
Solid panels, no gaps between boards · Difficulty: medium
Naturally rot-resistant, premium look · $15-30/ft · 15-20 years
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ft
Quick:
ft
6-8 ft typical for wood, up to 10 ft for chain link
Include gates
ft
ft
%
Include concrete for posts
1-2 bags for 4 ft fence, 2-3 bags for 6 ft fence
Enable cost estimate
Results
22
posts needed
Total Length:150 ft
Gate Width:4 ft
Fence Length:146 ft
Corner Posts:4
Line Posts:16
Gate Posts:2
Panels (no waste):19
Extra for waste:+2
Total Panels:21
Rails:57
Concrete (50 lb bags):44 bags
Calculation Steps
Total Length: 150 ft= 150 ft
Gate Width: 1×4ft + 0×12ft= 4 ft
Fence Length: 150 - 4= 146 ft
Posts: 146 ÷ 8ft + corners + gates= 22 posts
Panels: 146 ÷ 8ft= 19 panels
+ 10% waste: 19 × 1.10= 21 panels
Concrete: 22 posts × 2 bags= 44 bags
Privacy First - All calculations in your browserExpert-verified formula
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your project type — Backyard privacy, front yard decorative, or pool enclosure.
- Choose fence style and material — Privacy, picket, chain link, or vinyl based on your needs.
- Enter total fence length — Measure the perimeter you want to enclose.
- Add gates if needed — Walk gates (3-4 ft) and drive gates (10-16 ft).
- Review results — See posts, panels, rails, concrete, and cost estimate.
How We Calculate
Posts = (Fence Length ÷ Post Spacing) + 1 + Corner Posts + Gate Posts
Example: 150 ft Privacy Fence with 8 ft Spacing
- • Line posts: 150 ÷ 8 + 1 = 20 posts
- • Corner posts: 4 posts (typical rectangle)
- • Gate posts: 1 walk gate × 2 = 2 posts
- • Total posts: 20 - 4 + 4 + 2 = 22 posts
- • Panels: 150 ÷ 8 = 19 panels
- • With 10% waste: 19 × 1.10 = 21 panels
Post Spacing Guidelines:
- • Wood privacy/picket: 6-8 ft
- • Vinyl: 6-8 ft
- • Chain link: 8-10 ft
- • Aluminum/ornamental: 6 ft
Post Depth Rule:
- • Bury 1/3 of total post length + 6"
- • 6 ft fence → 8 ft post → 2.5-3 ft deep
- • Cold climates: below frost line (3-4 ft)
Based on American Fence Association (AFA) installation standards.