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Fence posts and rails

Estimate posts, rails and bays for a straight fence run.

Built and maintained by The NumberPrism Editorial TeamEditorial policy

Your details

Results update as you type. The formula and assumptions are explained below the calculator.

Fence posts needed

14 posts

Fence bays13 bays
Rail boards26 rails
Total rail length208 ft
Length incl. waste229 ft

Posts are measured centre to centre along a straight run. Add dedicated gate and corner posts, and check the panel manufacturer for maximum spacing.

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What does this tool do?

A fence is divided into equal bays by its posts, so the post count is one more than the number of bays. Rail length is the number of bays multiplied by the rails per bay and the post spacing.

The Formula

Bays = ⌈Fence length ÷ Post spacing⌉; Posts = Bays + 1; Rail length = Bays × Rails per bay × Post spacing

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should fence posts be?

8 ft is common for timber panels, while 6 ft suits heavier or taller fences. Always follow the panel manufacturer and local wind-load rules.

Do I need extra posts for gates?

Yes. Gate posts carry more load and are usually set deeper in concrete, so add them separately from the line-post count.