Fence calculator: how many posts, rails and pickets
Enter the length of the fence, its height and any gates. You get posts, rails and pickets for a wood picket or privacy fence, how deep to set the posts, and the concrete for the holes.
- Posts, rails and pickets
- Gates taken out
- Links to concrete
Assumes wood pickets on 2x4 rails between posts: 2 rails for a 4 ft fence, 3 for 6 ft. Post depth uses the common rule of a third of the fence height, at least 24 inches; your local code or frost line may need more.
Do the job
How it works
Posts = fence length ÷ post spacing, rounded up, plus 1 for the end, plus 1 for each gate.
Rails = sections × rails per section (2 for a 4 ft fence, 3 for 6 ft).
Pickets = fence length without the gates, in inches, ÷ (picket width + gap), plus about 5% spare.
Post depth = a third of the fence height, at least 24 inches.
About this tool
Who it's for
For anyone pricing a new wood fence or a long repair.
Example
You enter100 ft of 6 ft privacy fence, 8 ft sections, no gates
You get14 posts, 39 rails and 230 pickets.
What's different
- Counts posts, rails and pickets together.
- Takes gate openings out of the picket count.
- Hands the post holes to the concrete calculator.
Gotchas and tips
- Call 811 a few days before you dig, so buried lines get marked.
- Check property lines and any HOA or city fence rules first.
- Use ground-contact rated posts.
Privacy: Runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to us.
Built and maintained by the GrabTheHammer team. Updated November 2026. Spot a problem? Tell us.
Materials for common fence lengths
Wood fence, posts every 8 ft, 5.5 inch pickets set tight, no gates, with about 5% spare pickets.
| Fence | Posts | Rails | Pickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 ft, 4 ft high | 8 | 14 | 116 |
| 50 ft, 6 ft high | 8 | 21 | 116 |
| 100 ft, 4 ft high | 14 | 26 | 230 |
| 100 ft, 6 ft high | 14 | 39 | 230 |
| 150 ft, 4 ft high | 20 | 38 | 345 |
| 150 ft, 6 ft high | 20 | 57 | 345 |
| 200 ft, 4 ft high | 26 | 50 | 459 |
| 200 ft, 6 ft high | 26 | 75 | 459 |
Before you build
- Call 811 a few days before digging so buried lines get marked.
- Find your property line and check city and HOA rules on height and which side faces out.
- Run a string line between the end posts so the rest line up.
- Set posts first and let the concrete cure before hanging rails and gates.
Fence questions
How far apart should fence posts be?
Eight feet is the most common spacing, because rails come in 8 ft lengths. Some fences use 6 ft for extra strength in windy spots.
How deep do fence posts go?
A common rule is a third of the above-ground height, at least 2 feet. In cold areas, go below the frost line; your local building department can tell you how deep that is.
Do I need a gap between pickets?
For a privacy fence, set them tight or close to it. Wood shrinks as it dries, so gaps may open up a little over time. For a picket fence, gaps of 2 to 3 inches are common.
Which side of the fence faces out?
Many cities and HOAs require the finished side, without the posts and rails showing, to face the neighbor or street. Check your local rules.
How much should I leave for a gate?
Add the gate's width plus room for hinges and the latch, usually about half an inch per side. Use a sturdy post on each side of the gate.
What wood lasts longest?
Cedar and redwood resist rot naturally; pressure-treated pine costs less. Use ground-contact rated lumber for posts whatever the pickets are.