Fence material calculations follow a logical chain: measure linear footage → determine post spacing → count posts → count rails → count pickets or boards. Missing a step in this chain is the most common cause of under-ordering materials — especially for gates, corners, and end posts that require extra hardware.
Post spacing: standard is 6–8 feet. Six-foot spacing requires more posts and concrete but creates a sturdier, more wind-resistant fence — preferred for privacy fences in windy areas. Eight-foot spacing is more economical and standard for most applications. Corner posts, gate posts, and end posts require additional concrete (2 bags vs 1 bag at standard posts) because they bear more stress.
Gate planning: each gate opening requires 2 gate posts (plus extra hardware), and you must subtract the gate width from the total fence perimeter when calculating pickets/boards. A 4-foot gate in a 200-foot fence replaces 4 feet of solid fencing — account for this to avoid overbuying fence boards.
Post depth rule: posts should be buried 1/3 to 1/2 of their total length underground. For a 6-foot fence: use 9-foot posts, buried 3 feet. For a 4-foot fence: use 6-foot posts, buried 2 feet. In areas with frost (anything north of Zone 7), posts must extend below the frost line (typically 36–48 inches deep) to prevent heaving and leaning.
Fence material longevity and cost: Vinyl/PVC: 30+ years, no maintenance, $25–$40/linear ft installed. Cedar: 15–25 years with sealing every 3–5 years, natural appearance, $15–$30/linear ft. Pressure-treated pine: 15–20 years, most economical wood option, $10–$20/linear ft. Chain link: 15–25 years, functional, $10–$20/linear ft. Aluminum: 30+ years, low maintenance, rust-proof, $25–$35/linear ft.
Always check local permit requirements (usually needed for fences over 6 feet), HOA covenants, and property lines (get a survey if uncertain) before ordering materials.
Standard post spacing: 6–8 feet. Always add 1 for the closing post. For 6-ft privacy fence: 2 rails per span (top and bottom). For 8-ft privacy: add a middle rail (3 rails). Each post hole needs 2 bags (80 lb) of concrete. Add extra posts for corners and gate openings (2 posts per gate).
200 ft privacy fence · 8 ft post spacing · 1 gate
26 posts · 50 rails · ~360 boards · 52 concrete bags
150 ft chain link · 10 ft spacing
16 posts + corner posts · 32 concrete bags
100 ft split rail · 8 ft spacing · 2 rails
14 posts · 26 rails
About the Author
Henry
Founder & Developer, Online Calculator Suite
Henry is the independent creator of Online Calculator Suite, based in Utah. He builds and maintains every calculator on this site and writes the guides, checking formulas against published sources such as the IRS, CDC and NIH. He is not a licensed financial advisor or medical professional, so results are for information only.