Fence Calculator

Estimate the materials needed for a wooden or panel fence: fence posts, horizontal rails, pickets and the number of bags of concrete required for the post footings. Enter the total fence length and spacing, and the calculator does the rest.

Enter fence details

Units
In metres (or feet).
In cm (or inches). Standard: 240 cm (8 ft).
2 rails for most fences; 3 for taller or privacy fences.
In cm (or inches). Standard: 9 cm (3.5 in).
In cm (or inches). Common: 2–5 cm (¾–2 in).
Standard: 2 bags of 50 lb (22 kg) mix per post, more if the soil is loose.

Enter fence details, then press Calculate fence.

Fence material formulas

Number of bays = ⌈fence length ÷ post spacing⌉

Number of posts = bays + 1

Total rails = bays × rails per bay

Pickets per bay = ⌊bay length ÷ (picket width + gap)⌋

Bags of concrete = posts × bags per post

Concrete Calculator

Concrete for post holes.

Gravel Calculator

Gravel for the fence line.

Frequently asked questions

A common rule: bury one-third of the post length, or at least 60 cm (24 in). In frost-prone areas, extend the hole below the frost line to prevent frost heave from lifting the post. A wider hole with concrete around the base gives the post lateral stability.

Metal (galvanised steel) posts last longer and don't rot, but wood blends better with a natural garden aesthetic and can be stained or painted to match. Concrete post footings work for both. For very long fence runs, metal is the lower-maintenance choice.