Fence Post, Section and Rail Calculator
Calculate fence sections, posts and horizontal rails from total length, post spacing and rails per section.
Formula
Planning estimate. Check product specifications and local requirements before purchasing.
Worked example: Fence Material Calculator
Measurements in this example
| Fence length | 30 m |
|---|---|
| Maximum post spacing | 2.5 m |
| Rails per section | 2 |
| Waste allowance | 5 % |
Calculated quantities
| Fence sections | 12 |
|---|---|
| Fence posts | 13 |
| Horizontal rails | 26 |
What to check
This calculation uses: Fence length, Maximum post spacing, Rails per section, Waste allowance. It returns: Fence sections, Fence posts, Horizontal rails.
Measure each straight fence run and mark corners, ends and gates. Sloping ground may need shorter stepped sections.
The length is divided by maximum post spacing and rounded up to complete sections. One extra post closes the final section.
Posts and rails are planning quantities. Panels, pickets, fasteners, caps, braces and gate hardware depend on the chosen system.
Check exact post positions against boundaries, underground services and gate openings before drilling or digging.
Use the units beside each field. The values in the worked example are starting inputs; replace them with your measurements and the specifications of your material.
Compare alternatives
Open a tool, enter your measured dimensions, then save an estimate. Keep another version if you want to compare products or allowances.