Fence Calculator
Estimate fence posts, panels or pickets and material cost.
Project details
Enter your measurements below.
Estimate fence posts, panels and purchase length
The Fence Calculator is a simple linear estimator for a straight fence run. It uses your maximum post spacing to estimate the number of posts, panel or section width to estimate the panel count, and a waste-adjusted linear length to estimate material cost.
Straight fence runs with regular post spacing and consistent panel or section width.
Approximate posts, panels/sections, purchase length and material cost.
Corners, gates, terminal assemblies and terrain-specific details are not automatically added.
How to use the Fence Calculator
- Measure the total fence run length.
- Enter the maximum spacing you want between posts.
- Enter the width of one fence panel or section.
- Set a waste allowance for material cuts and project-specific extra length.
- Enter a price per linear foot or metre if you want a broad material-cost estimate.
Formula used by DIYGauge
What this result helps you decide
Use posts, panels and purchase length for a preliminary fence takeoff.
Worked example: 100 ft fence
- Fence length
- 100 ft
- Post spacing
- 8 ft
- Panel width
- 8 ft
- Waste
- 5%
- Price
- $18/ft
A 100 ft run at 8 ft maximum spacing requires 13 spaces, so the calculator returns 14 posts. It also returns 13 eight-foot panels. With 5% waste, purchase length is 105 ft and the broad material estimate is $1,890 at $18 per linear foot.
Practical planning tips
Add project-specific posts for corners, gates, end conditions and changes in direction where the fence system requires them.
Local rules can control fence height, setbacks, post depth and property-line placement; the calculator does not determine those requirements.
Sloped terrain and stepped/racked panels can change panel count and material use.
Common mistakes to avoid
Gate openings and corners change post locations.
Property lines, buried utilities and local fence rules should be confirmed before installation.
Fence Calculator FAQs
Why does the calculator add one post?+
A straight run divided into spaces needs a post at both ends, so the number of posts is one more than the number of spaces.
Are gate posts included?+
No. Gates often need additional or heavier posts, so add those based on the gate system and project design.
What if my panels are narrower than the post spacing?+
Enter the actual panel or section width separately. Post count and panel count are calculated from their own inputs.
Does the cost include labor?+
The general Fence Calculator uses a simple price-per-linear-unit material input. Use the Fence Cost Calculator when you want separate material, labor and gate-cost fields.
How Many Fence Posts and Panels Do I Need?
Plan posts and panels from the total fence run while keeping gates, corners and spacing changes visible in the estimate.