Formula
How the fence estimate works
- Net fence run = total run − (gate width × gate count)
- Panel count = net fence run ÷ panel width × (1 + waste %), rounded up
- Post count = panel count + 1 + gate count
Free project planning tool
Fence calculator
Estimate full fence panels, posts, gate openings, waste allowance, and basic material cost.
✓ Metric & imperial✓ Transparent assumptions✓ No signup
Panels & postsInstant estimate
Example calculation
A 120 ft run with one 4 ft gate and 8 ft panels needs 15 panels before waste. With 5% waste, the purchase quantity rounds up to 16 panels and about 18 posts.
Planning tips
- Measure each straight run separately when the fence has corners or changes direction.
- Gate posts, end posts, corner posts, and slope transitions may require different hardware.
- Confirm panel width and post spacing with the actual product system.
Common questions
Fence calculator FAQ
How many fence posts do I need?
For one straight run, a useful starting point is one more post than the number of panels, plus an additional post allowance for gates.
Does the calculator include corners?
No. Calculate separate straight runs and review corner, end, and gate-post requirements for the selected fence system.
How much fence waste should I use?
Five percent is often enough for simple panel systems. Irregular boundaries, slopes, custom cuts, and picket fences may need more.
Planning guides
Understand the estimate
01Material waste allowanceChoose a waste allowance based on cuts, breakage, patterns, package sizes, and project complexity instead of one universal percentage.→02Estimate project costBuild a clear project cost estimate from measured quantities, material rates, labor, delivery, contingency, and tax.→03Estimating checklistA repeatable checklist for measuring a project, verifying product coverage, rounding packages, pricing the order, and reviewing the result.→