Fence Calculator
Estimate posts, boards, and rails for any fence project — privacy, picket, or ranch style.
Results update instantly as you type.
Interactive Fence Layout
Visualization of your fence section.
How Many Fence Boards Do I Need?
To calculate fence boards, divide the total fence length by the effective board width (board width + gap). For privacy fences with no gap, divide the fence length in inches by the board width in inches.
Boards = Fence Length (in) ÷ (Board Width + Gap) (in)
How Far Apart Should Fence Posts Be?
| Post Spacing | Fence Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 6 ft | Privacy, Board-on-Board | High winds, heavy panels |
| 8 ft | Standard Privacy, Picket | Most residential fences |
| 10 ft | Ranch, Split Rail | Open field, livestock |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fence boards do I need for 100 feet of fence?
For 100 feet of privacy fence with 5.5″ boards and no gap, you need approximately 218 boards. Calculation: (100 × 12) ÷ 5.5 = 218. Add 10–15% waste (240 boards total).
How deep should fence posts be buried?
Fence posts should be buried 1/3 of the total post length. For a 6-foot fence, use 8-foot posts buried 24 inches deep. Always set posts in concrete for stability.
How many rails do I need per fence section?
Use 2 rails for fences under 6 feet, and 3 rails for fences 6 feet or taller. Rails run horizontally between posts and support the vertical fence boards.
Plan Your Fence Project
Calculate exact materials — posts, boards, and rails for any fence style.
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