How many fence posts do I need for my project?

Divide the total fence length by the post spacing and add 1. For example, a 100-foot fence with 8-foot spacing needs 13 posts (100÷8 + 1 = 13.5, round up to 14). Add extra posts for corners, gates, and any changes in direction. The calculator automatically handles these calculations for you.

What factors affect fence material costs?

Fence type, material quality, height, local labor rates, site preparation needs, and additional features like gates or decorative elements all affect costs. Wood fences cost $15-30 per linear foot, metal $20-40, vinyl $25-45, and composite $30-50. Higher quality materials and complex installations increase costs significantly.

How do I handle irregular fence shapes and corners?

Break irregular shapes into straight sections and measure each separately. Add the lengths together for the total. For corners, add extra posts at each corner point. The calculator assumes straight sections, so for complex layouts, calculate each section separately and add the results.

What should I consider when choosing post spacing?

Consider fence type, local building codes, wind loads, and material strength. Wood and vinyl fences typically use 6-8 feet spacing, metal fences 6-10 feet. Shorter spacing provides more stability but increases costs. Check local codes for maximum spacing requirements and consider wind exposure in your area.

How much extra material should I order for waste and mistakes?

Add 10-15% extra material for waste, cutting errors, and future repairs. For posts, add 2-3 extra posts for corners and gates. For panels, add 1-2 extra panels depending on project size. The calculator includes waste recommendations, but always round up when ordering materials.

Fence Calculator

Fence Details

Length

Length of the fence

Height

Height of the fence

Fence Type

Type of fence material

Post Spacing

Distance between posts

Number of Gates

Number of gates needed

Calculation Results

Fence Calculator: Your Guide to Fence Planning

Need to calculate materials and costs for your fence project? Our Fence Calculator helps you determine the exact amount of materials needed and estimated costs for your fence installation.

Understanding Fence Calculations

Fence calculations are important for several reasons:

Material Planning: Accurate material estimates
Cost Control: Better budget management
Installation: Proper planning
Post Placement: Correct spacing
Project Timeline: Better scheduling

How to Use the Fence Calculator

Enter Dimensions: Input length and height
Select Material: Choose fence type
Set Spacing: Enter post spacing
Add Gates: Specify number of gates
Click Calculate: Get detailed results

Fence Calculation Formulas

Total Length:
L = Length + (Gates × Gate Width)

Number of Posts:
P = (L ÷ S) + 1

Number of Panels:
N = P - 1

Total Area:
A = L × H

Where:
L = Total length
S = Post spacing
H = Height
Gates = Number of gates

Common Fence Specifications

Fence Types:
- Wood: $15-30 per linear foot
- Metal: $20-40 per linear foot
- Vinyl: $25-45 per linear foot
- Composite: $30-50 per linear foot
Post Spacing:
- Wood: 6-8 feet
- Metal: 6-10 feet
- Vinyl: 6-8 feet
- Composite: 6-8 feet
Gate Sizes:
- Standard: 4 feet wide
- Double: 8 feet wide
- Custom: 6-12 feet wide
Common Heights:
- Privacy: 6-8 feet
- Security: 8-10 feet
- Decorative: 3-4 feet
- Pool: 4-6 feet

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Standard Backyard Fence

Length: 100 feet
Height: 6 feet
Fence Type: Wood
Post Spacing: 8 feet
Number of Gates: 1
Results:
- Total Length: 104 feet
- Number of Posts: 14
- Number of Panels: 13
- Total Area: 624 sq ft
- Estimated Cost: $1,560-3,120

Example 2: Large Property Fence

Length: 500 feet
Height: 8 feet
Fence Type: Metal
Post Spacing: 10 feet
Number of Gates: 2
Results:
- Total Length: 508 feet
- Number of Posts: 52
- Number of Panels: 51
- Total Area: 4,064 sq ft
- Estimated Cost: $10,160-20,320

Frequently Asked Questions

How many posts do I need?

Divide total length by post spacing and add 1.

What about corners?

Add extra posts for corners.

How to handle gates?

Add extra posts for gate support.

What about waste?

Add 10-15% for waste.

How to measure irregular shapes?

Break into rectangles and add lengths.