DIY Cost Tools
Fence Calculator
Plan a straight-run or perimeter fence using total length, panel width, gates, post quantities, and adjustable unit prices.
How this calculator works
Panels = fence length ÷ panel width, rounded up. Posts are estimated as panels + 1, with two extra posts for each gate.
How the estimate works: The calculator uses your measurements, unit conversions, waste allowance, and product coverage to create a planning quantity. Review the formula shown above, then read the matching guide below before ordering. See How Our Calculators Work for assumptions and limitations.
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Call 811 before digging in the United States and follow local setback, permit, and structural requirements. Read our advertising disclosure.
Planning the fence layout
Measure the intended fence line and mark gates, corners, ends, and changes in grade. This simple panel calculator estimates one post between panels and adds posts around gates. Custom layouts, shared posts, corners, and racked or stepped panels may change the total.
Before digging
- Confirm property lines, easements, permits, height limits, and HOA rules.
- Have underground utilities located before excavation.
- Post depth and concrete requirements depend on soil, frost depth, fence height, and wind.
- Include hardware, fasteners, caps, concrete, stain, and delivery in your budget.
Fence-layout example
A straight 180-foot run using nominal 8-foot panels begins with 180 ÷ 8 = 22.5 sections, which rounds up to 23 panels. A simple straight run normally starts with 24 post locations, but corners, ends, gates, braces, and transitions must be counted from a sketch. If a gate replaces part of the run, subtract its opening before calculating standard panels and count the gate posts separately.
Verify the route before buying materials
Measure every straight segment and mark property lines, easements, setbacks, grade changes, and underground utilities. Use the installed panel width, not just its product name, and confirm post size, bracket gaps, gate hardware, footing depth, soil, frost, and wind requirements. Concrete, caps, fasteners, finish, demolition, delivery, and tool rental should be budgeted separately.