How this calculator works
This runs our fence calculator on your measurements. Take away the gates, divide the run by the post spacing for the sections, add an end post and a post for each side of a gate. A 6 ft fence has three rails a section; pickets fill the run at their width. Concrete comes from the post holes, and the other lines follow from the counts.
Worked example: 100 ft of 6 ft fence with one 4 ft gate and 8 ft spacing: 12 sections, 14 posts, 36 rails and 210 pickets of 1×6, and 24 bags of concrete for the posts. With prefab panels instead of pickets it is 12 panels.
Materials by fence length (6 ft picket fence, one 4 ft gate, 8 ft spacing)
1×6 pickets set tight.
| Fence length | Posts | Rails | Pickets | 80 lb bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 ft | 8 | 18 | 101 | 14 |
| 100 ft | 14 | 36 | 210 | 24 |
| 150 ft | 21 | 57 | 319 | 36 |
| 200 ft | 27 | 75 | 428 | 46 |
Tips before you buy
- Find the property line and check local rules before you buy anything. Many places limit a fence to 6 feet in back and less at the front.
- Walk the line with a string, and mark every gate and corner. A corner post is shared by the two sides.
- Set posts about one third of their length into the ground, at least 2 feet, and deeper where the ground freezes.
- Put a few inches of gravel in each hole so that the post bottom is not sitting in water.
- Brace the gate with a diagonal or a gate frame kit, or it will sag.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How many posts do I need for a 100 ft fence?
14 posts for a 100 ft fence with one 4 ft gate and 8 ft post spacing: 12 sections, an end post, and an extra post for the gate. A corner post is shared by the two sides, so count it once.
How many pickets do I need for 100 ft of fence?
210 pickets of 1×6 (5½ inches actual) set tight across the run. Panels or a different picket width change the count, and a few spares are wise.
How many bags of concrete per fence post?
About 1.7 bags of 80 lb for a 4×4 post in a 10 inch hole 24 inches deep. For 14 posts that is 24 bags.
How deep should fence posts be set?
About one third of the fence height, and at least 2 feet. A 6 ft fence uses 8 ft posts set about 2 ft deep, and deeper where the ground freezes.
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Related calculators & guides
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.