Preassembled panels
Panels = Σ ceil(segment length ÷ installed span)
A remainder on one segment is never assumed to span a corner or another independent run.
Fence formulas
Why each segment is calculated separately.
Lengths convert to meters before calculation. Whole panels, post bays and pickets are rounded per segment so corners and separate runs are not treated as one continuous stock length.
Post bays
Bays = Σ ceil(segment length ÷ maximum spacing)
This keeps every calculated bay at or below the entered maximum spacing.
Pickets
Base pickets = Σ ceil(segment length ÷ (width + gap))
The formula models solid or evenly spaced pickets only.
Post topology
Posts = spans + endpoint adjustments
Connected open runs add one post, closed loops add none, and separate runs add one post per run.
Measure and plan
Use verified dimensions for the fence system.
Fence panels
Panel names do not guarantee installed span. Use the manufacturer’s actual post-to-post spacing or linear coverage.
Fence posts
This calculator estimates post locations. Post type, spacing, depth and footing requirements remain product- and site-specific.
Fence segments
Measure every straight run separately. Connected corners share a post; independent runs retain both endpoints.
Picket spacing
For individual boards, the repeating module is picket width plus the chosen gap. Overlapping patterns need a different layout method.
Gates
Exclude gate openings from fence lengths. For multiple gates, calculate each continuous fence run separately when the topology is ambiguous.
Extra pickets
The editable allowance affects pickets only. It never changes post bays or post locations.
Before you build
What this fence estimate assumes
- Fence runs are modeled as straight segments entered in their actual connection order.
- Gate openings are excluded from the submitted fence lengths and gate components are not estimated.
- Panel estimates assume the system permits a shortened last panel where a run does not end evenly.
- Picket estimates cover solid or evenly spaced boards, not board-on-board, shadowbox or alternating layouts.
- The calculator estimates post locations but not post types, embedment, concrete, rails, fasteners or hardware.
- No material choice, cost, labor, structural design or code compliance is included.
Confirm the site before digging
Before digging, confirm property boundaries, easements, permits or local requirements and use the appropriate local utility-locating service. Post spacing, embedment depth and footing requirements depend on the fence system, soil, climate and applicable rules.
Pool and safety barriers may be subject to specific height, opening, gate and hardware requirements. This calculator does not determine code compliance.
Fence questions
Frequently asked questions
How many fence panels do I need for 100 feet?
Divide each straight run by the manufacturer’s installed panel span and round that run up. Do not assume a universal panel width.
How many posts do I need for a fence?
Each panel or calculated bay spans two posts. Connected runs share junction posts, closed loops reconnect, and independent runs retain two endpoints.
Are fence panels always 6 or 8 feet wide?
No. Nominal panel names, actual widths and required center-to-center post spacing vary by product. Use the manufacturer’s installed span.
How far apart should fence posts be?
There is no universal spacing. Enter the maximum spacing specified for your fence system, site and applicable requirements.
How many pickets do I need?
For solid or evenly spaced boards, divide each segment by picket width plus gap, round each segment up, then apply the selected extra-picket allowance.
Should I add extra pickets?
Measivo starts at 10% for damaged boards, cuts and jobsite waste. Adjust that allowance using your project and supplier guidance.
How do I account for corners?
Use Connected open or Closed loop and enter each straight segment in order. Adjacent segments share their junction post.
How do I account for a gate?
Exclude the gate opening from fence lengths. A single gate in an otherwise closed perimeter can be modeled as one connected open run from one gate post around to the other.
Does this calculator estimate concrete?
No. Post-hole dimensions, concrete, gravel, embedment and footing requirements are not included.
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