Post Count
The number of fence posts needed based on length and spacing. postCount = ceil(totalLength / postSpacing) + 1 (for the starting post)
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About Fence Calculator
Measure the fence on a map or by hand, then get posts, rails, panels, and a printable quote.
MapBoard-on-boardVinylChain linkAluminumUK / CA / NZ / ZA
About this calculator
What this does
Calculates the full material takeoff for a fence project—posts, rails, panels, concrete, and hardware—based on the measured length, height, and material type. It also provides a printable cost quote with adjustable pricing for wood, board-on-board, vinyl, chain link, and aluminum fences.
Who it is for
Homeowners planning a new fence, contractors preparing material estimates, and DIYers comparing costs across fence styles and regions with support for UK, CA, NZ, and ZA units.
How it works
Start by selecting your region, units, and fence material. Measure the fence length by tracing directly on the map or entering dimensions by hand. The calculator divides the total length by the standard spacing for posts and rails, accounts for gate openings, and multiplies each material item by your entered unit prices to build a complete cost breakdown.
Limitations
Assumes straight fence runs and does not account for steep terrain, retaining walls, or specialized site prep. Pricing is based on user-entered values, not live retailer data, and labor rates may vary significantly by region.
Formula
Rail Count
The number of horizontal rails per section times the number of sections between posts. railCount = (postCount - 1) × railsPerSection
Panel Count
Standard panel sections derived from total length divided by panel width. panelCount = ceil(totalLength / panelWidth)
Total Cost
Sum of all material costs plus concrete, hardware, and labor. totalCost = postCost + railCost + panelCost + concreteCost + hardwareCost + laborCost
How it works
Step 1
Select region and material
Pick your region to set default units and currency, then choose a fence type: wood, board-on-board, vinyl, chain link, or aluminum.
Step 2
Enter fence length
Trace the fence line on the map and confirm the measured length, or enter the length and height manually using your preferred units.
Step 3
Set post and rail options
Adjust the post spacing, number of rails per section, and panel width to match your fence design and local building practices.
Step 4
Add gate details
Enter gate widths to subtract from the material takeoff. Gate posts are added to the total post count automatically.
Step 5
Configure material prices
Enter your local prices for posts, rails, panels, concrete, and hardware, or use the defaults as a starting reference.
Step 6
Print the quote
Review the full material list, quantities, and cost breakdown, then print the quote summary for shopping or contractor bids.
Reference ranges
Post Spacing
Typical post spacing is 6–8 feet. 8 ft for wood and vinyl, 6–10 ft for chain link depending on wind loads and local codes.
Material Lifespan
Wood fences last 10–15 years. Vinyl: 20–30 years. Chain link: 15–20 years. Aluminum: 30+ years with minimal maintenance.
Cost per Linear Foot
Wood: $15–$35. Board-on-board: $20–$45. Vinyl: $25–$60. Chain link: $10–$30. Aluminum: $25–$55. Installed prices vary by region and labor rates.
Board Factor (Board-on-Board)
Board-on-board uses roughly 1.5–2× the boards of a standard privacy fence because each board overlaps the next. The default factor is editable based on your build.