Fence Calculator
How many fence panels and posts do I need? Enter the run length, panel width, and post spacing to get sections, posts, and a waste-adjusted panel count.
Calculator
How it works
We convert every length to feet. Sections come from total length divided by post spacing, rounded up. Posts are sections plus one end post. Panels are the number of panel bays minus gates, then increased by your waste factor and rounded up to a whole panel.
Formula
Sections = ceil(fence length / post spacing). Posts = sections + 1. Panels = ceil(fence length / panel width) − gates. Recommended panels = ceil(panels x (1 + waste%)).
Example
A 96 ft run, 8 ft panels, 8 ft post spacing, 1 gate, 10% waste: 12 sections, 13 posts, 11 panels before waste, 13 panels to buy.
How to measure
Measure the total fence line, not including gates you already have. Use the panel width printed on the product. Post spacing is usually the same as panel width for prefab panels.
FAQ
How many posts do I need for a 96 ft fence?
With 8 ft spacing this calculator uses 12 sections and 13 posts (one extra at the end). Gates sit in a section and do not remove posts.
Does a gate count as a panel?
No. Each gate replaces one panel bay so you buy fewer panels, but you still set posts on both sides of the opening.
What waste percent should I use?
10% covers cuts and a damaged panel. Use 0% if you are ordering exact prefab bays with no extras.