Fence Calculator
A typical 150 linear foot privacy fence (6 ft tall, cedar) requires approximately 47 posts, 282 rails, and 450 pickets. Material cost runs $1,800-$3,200 depending on wood type, with total installed cost of $3,750-$7,500.
Fence Calculator
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How to Calculate Fence Materials
Fence material calculations depend on three key measurements: total linear feet, fence height, and picket width. Posts are typically spaced every 8 feet on center, with 2-3 horizontal rails between them.
| Fence Height | Rails per Section | Post Depth | Recommended Post Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 ft | 2 | 24 in | 6 ft |
| 6 ft | 3 | 30 in | 8 ft |
| 8 ft | 3 | 36 in | 10 ft |
| Fence Style | Picket Width | Gap | Pickets per 8 ft Section |
|---|---|---|---|
| Privacy | 5.5 in | 0 in | 18 |
| Semi-Privacy | 5.5 in | 1.5 in | 14 |
| Picket | 3.5 in | 3.5 in | 14 |
Tips
- Always add one extra post beyond what the math gives (the starting post)
- Set corner and gate posts in concrete for added stability
- Check local setback rules before building within 2 feet of property lines
- Use pressure-treated wood for posts and ground-contact lumber for durability
- Account for gates separately: each gate needs two extra posts and hardware
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fence posts do I need?
Divide your total fence length in feet by the post spacing (typically 8 feet) and add 1 for the starting post. A 150-foot fence needs 20 posts (150 / 8 + 1 = 19.75, rounded up to 20). Add extra posts for each corner and gate.
How much does a wood fence cost per foot?
Wood fence materials cost $12-$25 per linear foot depending on wood type. Cedar runs $15-$25/ft, pressure-treated pine $10-$17/ft, and redwood $25-$35/ft. Professional installation adds $15-$35/ft for labor.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Fence posts should be buried at least one-third of their total length. For a 6-foot fence using 8-foot posts, bury 30 inches deep. In cold climates, set posts below the frost line (36-48 inches) to prevent heaving.
How far apart should fence posts be?
Standard fence post spacing is 8 feet on center for wood fences and 10 feet for chain-link. In high-wind areas or for fences over 6 feet tall, reduce spacing to 6 feet for added strength.
How many bags of concrete do I need per fence post?
Each fence post hole typically requires 1-2 bags (50-lb) of fast-setting concrete. For a 4-inch diameter post in a 10-inch hole that's 30 inches deep, plan on 1.5 bags per post.
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