Fence Panel and Picket Count Calculator
Calculate the number of fence panels, pickets, and posts needed for your fencing project based on your fence length and spacing preferences.
Formulas Used
Effective Fence Length
Effective Length = Total Fence Length − Total Gate Width
Number of Panels
Panels = ⌈ Effective Length ÷ Panel Width ⌉ (rounded up)
Number of Posts
Posts = Panels + 1 (one post at each end and between every panel)
Pickets per Panel
Spacing Unit (ft) = (Picket Width + Gap) ÷ 12
Pickets per Panel = ⌈ Panel Width ÷ Spacing Unit ⌉ (rounded up)
Total Pickets
Base Pickets = Pickets per Panel × Panels
Total Pickets (with waste) = ⌈ Base Pickets × (1 + Waste% ÷ 100) ⌉
Linear Feet of Picket Material
Linear Feet = Total Pickets (with waste) × (Picket Width ÷ 12)
Assumptions & References
- Reference: RS Means Building Construction Cost Data; typical residential fencing guidelines.