Fence Picket & Post Calculator

Enter your fence length and picket style to determine exactly how much lumber and concrete you need.

Privacy = 0", Standard Picket = 2"
Pickets Needed 110 Total Wood Pickets
Posts Needed 8 4x4 Wood Posts
Concrete Needed 16 Bags (80lb Standard)

Fencing Tips for Success

Building a fence is a weekend warrior staple, but it requires precise material planning to avoid multiple trips to the hardware store.

  • The Post Spacing Rule: Standard wood fences use an **8-foot spacing** between posts. This matches standard 2x4 rail lengths. If you are in a high-wind area, consider 6-foot spacing for extra strength. *This calculator assumes 8-foot spacing.*
  • Post Hole Depth: A good rule of thumb is to bury **1/3 of the total post length**. For a 6ft tall fence, you should use an 8ft post and bury 2ft of it in concrete.
  • Concrete per Post: For a standard 4x4 post, you should use approximately **two 80lb bags** of fast-setting concrete. This ensures a stable base that won't lean over time.
  • The Gap Factor: Privacy fences use a 0" gap, but remember that wood shrinks as it dries. If you install wet "green" lumber with no gap, you might end up with 1/8" gaps after a summer in the sun.