Does this include gates?

Subtract gate widths from perimeter before running the calculator, then add gate posts separately.

How deep should posts be?

Use local code guidance (often 1/3 of post height). This calculator only covers counts, not installation depth.

How do I handle corners?

This calculator assumes straight runs. Include extra posts for corners and add any bracing per your design.

What about uneven terrain?

Stepped or racked panels may change effective spacing; round up panels/posts to allow for field adjustments.

construction calculator

Fence Calculator

Estimate the number of fence panels and posts required for a perimeter.

Results

Panels needed: 23.00
Posts needed: 24.00

How to use this calculator

Enter total fence perimeter in feet.
Enter panel width in feet (common: 6–8 ft).
We compute panel count and posts (panels + 1). Round up to whole units when purchasing.

Inputs explained

Perimeter: Total fence run length in feet (subtract gates if you want a tighter count).
Panel width: Width of one fence panel. Custom-built sections may differ from prefab sizes.

How it works

We divide perimeter by panel width to estimate panel count, then add one post at the start and end.

Round up to the next whole panel/post since you can’t buy partial sections.

Formula

Panels = ceil(perimeter ÷ panel width)\nPosts = Panels + 1

When to use it

Estimating material counts before ordering fence panels and posts.
Comparing panel widths (6 vs 8 ft) for cost and layout.
Planning post counts for dig/setting before install day.

Tips & cautions

Subtract gate widths from perimeter, then add gate posts separately.
Round up to ensure enough panels/posts; extras can cover mistakes or terrain adjustments.
Local codes may dictate post spacing and depth—confirm before finalizing.
Assumes straight runs with consistent panel width; angled/stepped sections may need adjustments.
Gates/posts for corners or bracing aren’t added automatically—account for them manually.
No height or depth guidance—this is count-only.

Worked examples

180 ft fence with 8 ft panels

Panels = 23
Posts = 24

240 ft fence with 6 ft panels

Panels = 40
Posts = 41

Deep dive

This fence calculator estimates panel and post counts from perimeter and panel width. Enter your fence length and panel width to see how many panels and posts to buy.

Subtract gate widths and add gate/corner posts separately. Round up to whole units and follow local code for spacing and depth.

FAQs

Does this include gates?: Subtract gate widths from perimeter before running the calculator, then add gate posts separately.
How deep should posts be?: Use local code guidance (often 1/3 of post height). This calculator only covers counts, not installation depth.
How do I handle corners?: This calculator assumes straight runs. Include extra posts for corners and add any bracing per your design.
What about uneven terrain?: Stepped or racked panels may change effective spacing; round up panels/posts to allow for field adjustments.

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For estimating only. Confirm spacing and bracing requirements per local codes.