Fence Calculator
Fence Heights by Use
Average Costs/Ft
*Materials + labor installed
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Fence Building Guide
Planning Your Fence
A fence provides privacy, security, and defines property boundaries. Proper planning helps you choose the right materials and estimate costs accurately before starting your project.
Posts Calculation
Fence Types Comparison
| Type | Privacy | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood Privacy | Excellent | 15-20 years | High |
| Wood Picket | Low | 15-20 years | High |
| Chain Link | None | 20-30 years | Low |
| Vinyl | Good-Excellent | 20-30 years | Very Low |
| Wrought Iron | Low | 50+ years | Medium |
Post Installation
Post Depth
- Rule of thumb: 1/3 of total length underground
- 6ft fence = 2ft in ground (8ft post)
- Below frost line in cold climates
- Minimum 24" for most fences
Post Hole Size
- Diameter: 3× post width
- 4×4 post = 10-12" hole
- 6×6 post = 16-18" hole
- Flare bottom for stability
Materials Needed
Wood Fence (per 8ft section)
- 1 post (4×4×8)
- 2-3 rails (2×4×8)
- 16-18 pickets (1×6)
- 2 bags concrete
Hardware
- Galvanized screws/nails
- Post caps
- Rail brackets (optional)
- Gate hardware
Tools
- Post hole digger/auger
- Level (48"+)
- String line
- Circular saw
Before You Build
- Check local zoning and HOA rules for height limits
- Get a survey to confirm property lines
- Call 811 to locate underground utilities
- Talk to neighbors about shared fence costs
- Some areas require permits for fences
Installation Tips
- Set corner and end posts first
- Use string line for alignment
- Let concrete cure 24-48 hours before attaching rails
- Keep fence bottom 2-4" off ground
- Pre-stain or seal wood before installation
- Install with "good side" facing outward (often required)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how many fence posts I need?
Divide your total fence length by the post spacing (typically 6-8 feet), then add 1 for the end post. Add 2 extra posts for each gate. Formula: Posts = (Length / Spacing) + 1 + (Gates x 2).
How deep should fence posts be buried?
The rule of thumb is 1/3 of the total post length should be underground. For a 6-foot fence, use 8-foot posts with 2 feet buried. In cold climates, posts should extend below the frost line (typically 36-48 inches).
How many pickets do I need per section of fence?
For an 8-foot section with standard 3.5-inch pickets and 2-inch spacing, you need about 17 pickets. Calculate by dividing section length by (picket width + gap): 96 inches / 5.5 inches = 17.4 pickets.
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
Permit requirements vary by location. Most areas require permits for fences over 6 feet tall. Always check local zoning laws, HOA rules, and setback requirements. Call 811 before digging to locate underground utilities.