Fence Calculator
Calculate the number of fence panels and posts needed from your fence's total length and panel width.
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Results
Fence Panels Needed
40
Total Perimeter / Length
320.0 ft
Total Posts
40
Corner Posts
4
Line Posts
36
How to Calculate Fence Panels and Posts
Enter your fence's total length — either as a length × width for a fully enclosed rectangular yard, or as a single straight run for an open fence line — along with your fence panel width, and this calculator works out how many panels you need and how many posts to buy, counting corner or end posts separately from the line posts in between.
Example
A fully enclosed 100 ft × 60 ft yard has a perimeter of 320 ft. With 8 ft panels, that's 40 panels and 40 posts total — 4 corner posts and 36 line posts. A straight 150 ft fence run with the same 8 ft panels needs 19 panels and 20 posts total — 2 end posts and 18 line posts.
Common Use Cases
- Getting a materials list together before ordering fence panels and posts.
- Comparing total post and panel counts across different panel widths.
- Budgeting a fencing project for a backyard, dog run, or property line.
FAQs
Why does a fully enclosed layout need fewer posts per panel?
In a closed loop, every post is shared between two adjacent panels, so the number of posts equals the number of panels. In an open, straight run, the two ends aren't shared with another panel, so you need one extra post beyond the panel count.
Does this account for gates?
No — gate openings typically use different hardware and post spacing than standard panels. Subtract the gate width from your total perimeter before entering it here, and add gate posts and the gate itself separately.
What panel width should I use?
Most residential wood and vinyl fence panels come in standard 6 ft or 8 ft widths, though chain-link and some metal fencing use different post spacing — check your chosen fencing product's spec sheet for the exact panel or spacing width.