Material calculator
Fence Material Calculator
Estimate posts, sections, rails, pickets or panels, gates, and optional post concrete.
These results are planning estimates only. Verify product labels, site conditions, local requirements, and professional guidance before buying or building.
Calculator inputs
Adjust the typical defaults below. Results update automatically.
Results
Review quantities, warnings, and the shopping list before buying.
Fence sections
13sections
Posts
14posts
Rails
26rails
Pickets
200pickets
Concrete bags
37bags
Material list
- 14 posts Fence postsIncludes end posts
- 26 rails Fence rails
- 200 pickets Fence pickets6 in module
- 37 bags 80 lb bagFor post holes
- Verify separately Gate hardware and fastenersOptional notes only
Breakdown
| item | value | unit | calculation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fence length | 100 | ft | |
| Fence height note | 6 | ft | |
| Post spacing | 8 | ft | |
| Sections | 13 | Length / spacing, rounded up | |
| Gate width note | Not used in quantity math | ||
| Concrete per post | 1.57 | cu ft |
How to use
- Enter the total fence length and spacing.
- Choose picket or panel style and enter material dimensions.
- Turn on concrete if you want an estimated bag count for post holes.
Input guide
- Post spacing is the target maximum spacing between posts.
- Gate count adds extra posts because gates usually need dedicated supports.
- Concrete bag yield is cubic feet per bag.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting end posts and gate posts.
- Using panel width for picket spacing.
- Ignoring terrain slope, corners, and layout changes.
Assumptions and limitations
- No slope, corner, wind-load, local code, permit, or structural judgment is included.
- Gate hardware and fasteners are notes, not precise quantities.
- Concrete estimates use simple cylindrical holes.
Formula
- Sections = fence length / post spacing, rounded up.
- Posts = sections + 1 + extra gate posts.
- Rails = sections x rails per section.
- Pickets = fence length in inches / (picket width + gap), rounded up.
Example
A 100 ft picket fence with 8 ft post spacing has 13 sections and 14 line posts before gate extras. With 5.5 in pickets and 0.5 in gaps, it needs 200 pickets.
FAQ
Does this handle corner posts?
It estimates a straight run. Add extra posts manually for corners or changes in direction.
Can I use panel mode for vinyl or wood panels?
Yes for basic panel counts if you enter the actual panel width and post spacing.