Fencing Guide

A fence estimate is really four material counts: posts, rails, pickets and hardware (plus gates).

Mark the Perimeter

Walk and measure the full fence line, marking each corner and gate opening. A simple rectangle is perimeter = 2 × (length + width).

Posts and Spacing

Posts sit 6-8 ft apart depending on rail type and wind load. Divide the total run (minus gates) by your chosen spacing and add one for the end.

Rails and Pickets

Rails per section = number of horizontal rails (2 or 3) × number of sections

Pickets stack against the run length at your chosen gap. Divide the run by (picket width + gap), then round up and add 10% for cutting.

Gates and Hardware

Gate posts are larger than line posts.
Count hinge pins, latches and tension hardware per gate.
Brace the corners so the fence doesn't sag over time.

Related Calculators