🏡 Fence Calculator
Estimate the lumber materials required to build your wood privacy or spaced picket fence.
ft
in
A standard 1x6 picket is actually 5.5 inches wide.
in
Enter 0 for a solid privacy fence.
Estimated Materials List
Pickets
0
Vertical boards
4x4 Posts
0
Includes 1 end post
2x4 Rails
0
Horizontal supports
* This calculation assumes a straight, continuous fence line. If you have multiple disconnected sections or gates, you will need extra posts to cap off the ends.
Fence Anatomy 101
- Posts (usually 4x4s): The vertical pillars set in concrete that hold up the entire structure. They are usually spaced 8 feet apart.
- Rails (usually 2x4s): The horizontal boards that run between the posts. A standard 6-foot tall privacy fence requires 3 horizontal rails to keep the pickets from warping.
- Pickets (usually 1x6s or 1x4s): The vertical planks facing outward. Remember that "nominal" lumber sizing is a lie: a 1x6 picket is actually 5.5 inches wide, not 6 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to add an extra post? +
If you have 1 section of fence (1 panel), you need a post at the start, and a post at the end (2 posts total). Therefore, the number of posts required is always: Number of Panels + 1. If you add a gate, you will need to add an additional post to hinge it on.
How deep should I bury the posts? +
A good rule of thumb is to bury 1/3 of the post underground. If you want a 6-foot tall fence, you need to buy 8-foot posts and bury 2 feet of them in concrete. In freezing climates, make sure the bottom of the post goes below your local frost line to prevent "frost heave."