How to use this calculator
- Add each separate fence run.
- Enter the maximum post spacing and selected panel width.
- Enter the combined width of gate openings.
- Choose panel waste and calculate the planning quantities.
How the calculation works
Run lengths are combined for the length total. Posts are counted separately for each run by rounding the number of spaces upward and including both endpoints. Gate width is deducted from panel infill length; panel waste does not change the post count.
Formula
Posts per run = ceil(run length ÷ post spacing) + 1 Net infill = total run length − gate openings Purchase panels = ceil(ceil(net infill ÷ panel width) × (1 + waste %))
Worked example
Two 24 ft runs total 48 ft. At an entered 8 ft maximum spacing, each run uses 4 posts, or 8 total. With a 4 ft gate, 44 ft of infill and 8 ft panels require 6 panels before waste.
Project considerations
- Spacing and panel dimensions are editable assumptions, not universal recommendations.
- Each entered run receives its own two endpoints; shared corners should be modeled to match the actual layout.
- Gate hardware, post depth, structure, code requirements, and cost are not calculated.
Frequently asked questions
Why are posts counted separately by run?
The calculator assumes each entered run has two endpoints. This keeps the endpoint assumption visible and avoids silently sharing posts between disconnected runs.
Do gate openings reduce the post count?
No. Gate width reduces panel infill only; plan gate and adjacent posts for the selected system separately.