Fence Calculator

For one straight run of wood picket fence. Add gates and corners as extra posts when you order.

Worked example

30 m fence, posts every 2.4 m: 30 / 2.4 = 12.5, so 13 sections and 14 posts. Rails: 13 sections x 2 rails = 26 rails. Pickets at 140 mm wide with a 10 mm gap: pitch is 150 mm, so 30 / 0.15 = 200 pickets. The actual section length is 30 / 13 = 2.31 m, so rails are cut to fit each section.

How it works

Sections = fence length / post spacing, rounded up, and posts = sections + 1. Rails assume 2 rails per section (top and bottom), the standard for picket fences up to about 1.5 m tall; taller fences usually take 3. Pickets = fence length / (picket width + gap). Add roughly 5% extra pickets for cuts and rejects when you order.

FAQ

Should posts be 1.8 m or 2.4 m apart?

2.4 m spacing is the common, economical choice for standard picket fences. Use 1.8 m for taller fences, windy sites, or heavy board-on-board styles, and set posts below the local frost line.

Does this include gate posts and concrete?

No. Gate openings need doubled or heavier posts, and each post typically takes 1 to 2 bags of post-hole concrete mix depending on hole size. Add those separately.

Estimates only. This calculator gives planning estimates, not professional advice. Check local bylaws, property lines and underground utilities before digging.