Fence Materials: Posts, Rails & Pickets Count

A free fence calculator that works out the materials for a straight fence run. Enter the total length, the post spacing and the rails per section, and it returns the number of posts, sections, rails and — if you add a picket width — the pickets.

How to calculate a fence

1
Enter the length

Type the total length of the fence run.

2
Set the post spacing

Enter the center-to-center distance between posts.

3
Add rails and pickets

Enter the rails per section and, optionally, the picket width and gap.

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Estimate every fence part from length and spacing

m
Center-to-center spacing between posts — about 2.4–3 m (8–10 ft) is typical.
m
Optional — enter to get the picket count.
cm
cm
—
Posts
—
Sections
—
Rails
—
Pickets
The post count includes one post at each end. Gates, corners and sloping ground change the layout, so treat the result as a starting estimate.
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Features

Posts, sections and rails
Get the post count (with an end post each side), the sections between them and the total rails.
Picket count
Add the picket width and gap to get the number of pickets for a picket or board fence.
Meters for the run, centimeters for the picket
Enter the length and spacing in meters or feet, and the picket size in centimeters or inches.
Instant result
Every figure updates live as you change the length, spacing or rails.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should fence posts be?

Post spacing is typically 2.4–3 m (8–10 ft) center to center. Closer spacing makes a stronger fence; the exact figure depends on the panel size and local wind loads.

Why is there one more post than sections?

Each section of fence runs between two posts, so a run always needs one extra post — the end post. Five sections need six posts.

How are pickets counted?

The calculator divides the fence length by the picket width plus the gap between pickets. A larger gap means fewer pickets; a zero gap gives a solid board fence.

Does it handle corners and gates?

It calculates a single straight run. For corners, add a post at each turn; for a gate, leave a section as the opening and order gate hardware separately.

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Who is this tool for?
🔨 Home Renovation & DIY
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