Fence Estimate Calculator
Enter your fence length, type, and dimensions to get a complete material list: posts, rails, pickets, concrete bags, and hardware screws. You also see a labour-inclusive cost estimate and a per-item breakdown. Switch between wood privacy, picket, chain link, vinyl, aluminum, and split-rail styles, and the calc adjusts picket counts, rail counts, and post sizing automatically.
How the fence material estimate works
The calculator breaks your fence into three geometric building blocks: posts, rails, and pickets (or panels). Posts are spaced at the interval you choose (typically 6-8 feet for wood, 8-10 feet for chain link) along the effective fence length, which is your total perimeter minus any gate openings. The end post adds one to the section count, and each gate opening adds two dedicated gate posts. Rails run horizontally between consecutive posts; the default is 2 rails for most wood fences and 3 for vinyl. Pickets are counted by dividing the effective fenced length in inches by the pitch (picket width plus gap), then applying your waste factor. Concrete is estimated at 2 bags of 60-lb premix per post hole, which covers a standard 10-inch-diameter hole to the required depth.
Fence type selection and what changes
Each fence type loads different default values for picket width, picket spacing, and rails per section, because the physical construction differs. A wood privacy fence uses 5.5-inch boards with zero gap for solid coverage. A picket fence uses narrower 3.5-inch boards spaced 2-3 inches apart. Chain link and split rail have no individual pickets, so those counts drop to zero and the estimate reflects posts, rails, and hardware. Vinyl fences use pre-made panels rather than individual boards, so the picket count represents panels. The cost per linear foot also varies by type: chain link and split rail are the most affordable installed; vinyl and aluminum cost more but require less maintenance over their lifespan.
Waste factor and buying tips
The waste factor (default 10%) adds a buffer for board defects, cut-off offcuts, warped posts, and mis-measurements. For complex layouts with many corners and angles, raise it to 15-20%. For straight runs with good stock, 8-10% is usually enough. Always buy from the same production batch when possible: boards from different batches can vary in width, thickness, and colour. Pre-treat all cut ends with wood preservative or end-cut solution before installation to prevent moisture from entering exposed wood fibres, which is where rot begins.
Gate planning and post sizing
A gate is essentially a door hung in a fence frame, and it puts significantly more stress on its posts than a field post does. Use at least a 4x4 post for gates up to 4 feet wide, and 6x6 for anything wider or heavier. Gate posts should be set at least 1/3 of their total length below grade, which is why the calculator uses 1.5x the fence height as the post length. Double-pour concrete around gate posts and brace them plumb while it cures. For drive gates 10 feet or wider, consider a drop-rod anchor or a ground-bearing wheel at the leading edge to reduce post lean over time.
Typical installed cost by fence type
| Fence type | Low ($/ft) | Mid ($/ft) | High ($/ft) | Common uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood privacy | $15 | $22 | $30 | Backyard, privacy screening |
| Wood picket | $10 | $15 | $22 | Front yards, decorative |
| Chain link | $9 | $14 | $20 | Security, pet containment |
| Vinyl | $20 | $28 | $40 | Low maintenance, residential |
| Aluminum | $18 | $26 | $38 | Pool code, ornamental |
| Split rail | $8 | $12 | $18 | Rural, property boundary |
Mid-range US national estimates per linear foot (materials + labour, 2024-2026).
Frequently asked questions
How many posts do I need for a 100-foot fence?
With 8-foot post spacing, you need 100 / 8 = 12.5, rounded up to 13 sections, plus one end post, for 14 field posts. Add 2 gate posts per gate opening. With a single 4-foot gate the total is 16 posts. Closer spacing (6 ft) gives 18 field posts for extra rigidity in windy areas.
How deep should fence posts be set?
The standard rule is to bury at least one-third of the total post length. For a 6-foot fence with 9-foot posts, dig 3 feet deep. In frost-prone regions, the hole must go below the local frost line (often 36-48 inches) to prevent heaving. Deeper holes always improve stability.
How many bags of concrete do I need per post?
Two 60-lb bags of premix concrete per post is a common rule of thumb for a 10-inch-diameter hole at standard depth. For larger-diameter holes or deeper frost requirements, three bags may be needed. Always check the bag coverage chart for the hole dimensions you actually dig.
What is the best post spacing for a wood fence?
Six to eight feet is the standard range. Eight-foot spacing is economical because most dimensional lumber comes in 8-foot lengths, avoiding waste on rails. Six-foot spacing adds rigidity and is preferred in high-wind regions, on slopes, or for taller fences. Most builders default to 8 feet for budget builds and 6 feet for premium work.
How do I account for corners and angles?
Each inside or outside corner needs one post, which is already built into the calculator logic because corners simply end one post-spacing interval and begin the next. If your fence has many short angled runs, the rounding-up in each section independently can add posts compared to a single straight run of the same total length. Measure each straight segment separately and add the results for the most accurate count.
What is the cost difference between wood and vinyl fence?
Wood privacy fence typically costs $15-30 per linear foot installed; vinyl runs $20-40 per linear foot. Vinyl costs more upfront but requires no staining, sealing, or painting over its life, which can make the 20-year total cost competitive. Wood is easier to repair (replace one board), while vinyl repairs usually require full-panel replacement.
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
Many municipalities require a permit for fences over 4 feet in height, for fences along certain property boundaries, or for fences around pools. Check with your local building department before you dig. Permits typically cost $50-$200 and require a site plan showing fence location relative to property lines.