Fence Calculator
Enter your fence length and post spacing to estimate the number of posts, rails, and panels needed to complete your fence line.
What This Calculator Does
The fence calculator estimates how many posts, rails, and fence sections (panels) you need to build a straight run of fencing, plus a rough material cost, based on your total fence length and chosen post spacing.
How the Calculation Works
The number of sections is found by dividing the total fence length by the post spacing and rounding up, since a partial section still requires a full section’s worth of material. The number of posts is always one more than the number of sections, since a post is needed at both ends of every section as well as in between. Total rails are calculated by multiplying the number of sections by how many horizontal rails each section uses, and estimated cost combines your per-post and per-panel prices across the full run.
Tips for Fence Planning
- Common post spacing is 6 to 8 feet for wood fences and can be wider for chain link or metal panel systems — check your material’s specifications.
- Corner and gate posts typically need to be larger or more heavily set than standard line posts for stability.
- Call your local utility locate service before digging any post holes to avoid underground lines.
Note: This tool provides general estimates for planning purposes only. Confirm exact layout, post depth, and material requirements with local code and a qualified fencing contractor.