How to estimate fence materials
A wood fence breaks into four main parts: the posts set in concrete, the horizontal rails that span between them, the vertical pickets that form the privacy surface, and the concrete that anchors each post. The post count comes from dividing the fence length by your post spacing and adding one for the end, plus an extra post wherever a gate interrupts the run. Rails multiply by the number of sections, and pickets come from how many fit across the total length given their width and any gap.
Post spacing
Six to eight feet is the usual range. Eight feet is the common maximum for pre-built panels and keeps post counts down; closer spacing makes a sturdier fence and is worth it on windy sites or for heavy privacy boards. Whatever you choose, keep spacing consistent so rails and panels fit cleanly.
Pickets and gaps
Standard dog-ear pickets are about 5½ inches wide. Butted tight together they give full privacy; adding a small gap stretches coverage and lets the wood breathe but reduces privacy. The calculator accounts for the gap you set when working out how many pickets span your fence.
Frequently asked questions
How much concrete per post?
One to two 50 lb bags per post suits most residential fences. Tall fences, corner posts, and gate posts carry more load, so bump those to two or three bags.
What about rails — how long?
Rails typically come in 8-foot lengths to match standard post spacing. If you space posts at 8 feet, one rail spans one section; closer spacing means cutting rails to fit.
Does this include the gate?
The calculator adds posts for your gates, but gate frames, hinges, and latches are separate hardware. Pre-built gate kits or custom-built gates both work — budget for them on top of the fence materials.
Fence material example
For 100 feet of fence with posts spaced 8 feet apart, plan for about 14 posts including both ends. A two-rail design needs about 200 linear feet of rails. Picket count depends on picket width and gap, while concrete depends on hole diameter and depth.
Related outdoor calculators
Estimate post footing material with the concrete calculator, base material with the gravel calculator, or nearby landscaping with the plant calculator.