Fence Calculator
How much fence material do you need? This free fence calculator gives homeowners and pros an instant material list — posts, rails, pickets, concrete, and hardware — for wood, vinyl, and chain link styles, based on your fence length and chosen height.
Fence material errors are punishing. Buy one fewer post than the IRC requires for an 8-ft span and the panel sags within a season; buy too few rails and the pickets warp by year two. Concrete is sold by the cubic foot, but post holes are sized in inches — the conversion catches almost everyone the first time.
Built on IRC building-code post spacing, with auto-adjusted concrete volume per post hole.
See 2026 fence installation cost ranges — wood, vinyl, chain-link & more →
Fence Materials Calculator
Industry-standard material estimator for all fence types.
Basic Measurements
Adding up fence sides? Calculate total linear feet →
Open-ended fences require stronger terminal posts
Fence Type
Post spacing: 8 feet on center
Gates
Double Driveway Gates
How a fence actually goes together
Three things decide whether a fence lasts or leans: how deep the posts go, how far apart they sit, and — for the one moving part — which way the gate brace runs. Here is each one.
The post-depth section is why the calculator buries about a third of each post and asks about frost. A post set above the frost line heaves every winter, so the hole reaches below it, sits on a gravel drainage base, and the concrete is crowned to shed water. That buried depth is real post length and concrete the estimate has to include.
The post-spacing elevation explains why the calculator caps spacing at eight feet on-center. Rails come in eight-foot lengths, and the span is measured center-to-center, not gap-to-gap, so sections are the run divided by eight rounded up. Corner and end posts are heavier than line posts, which is why they are counted separately.
The gate-bracing comparison is the detail that keeps a gate from sagging, so it is worth getting right even though it is one brace. A wood brace only works in compression, so it must run from the bottom hinge up to the top latch corner. Run it the other way and it goes into tension, the gate droops, and it will not latch.
New to the calculator? Watch a quick tutorial
Calculation Formulas
For rectangular areas, add all four sides. For irregular shapes, measure and sum each side.
Example:
50ft × 30ft yard = (2 × 50) + (2 × 30) = 160 linear feet
Divide total length by spacing (6-8 feet typical), then add 1 for the final corner post.
Example:
160 ft ÷ 8 ft spacing = 20 posts + 1 = 21 posts total
Calculate volume of cylindrical hole. Convert diameter to radius, square it, multiply by π and depth.
Example:
12" diameter (1 ft), 36" deep (3 ft): 3.14 × 0.5² × 3 = 2.36 cubic feet per post
Multiply cubic feet per post by number of posts, divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards.
Example:
21 posts × 2.36 ft³ = 49.56 ft³ ÷ 27 = 1.84 cubic yards
Number of fence sections is always one less than number of posts.
Example:
21 posts = 20 fence sections (8 feet each)
Industry standard: bury one-third of total post length for stability.
Example:
6 ft fence height → 2 ft below ground → 8 ft total post length
Standard Constants
| Constant | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Post Spacing | 8 feet | IRC maximum for wood fence, 6-8 ft typical residential |
| Post Diameter (Round) | 4-6 inches | Standard treated wood round posts |
| Post Size (Square) | 4×4 inches | Most common square post dimension |
| Minimum Concrete Depth | 24 inches | IRC minimum, deeper in frost zones |
| Concrete Mix Strength | 2,500-3,000 PSI | Standard for fence post footings |
| Post Hole Diameter | 3× post width | Minimum for adequate concrete surround |
| Waste Factor | 10% | Accounts for cuts, damage, and errors |
Note: All calculations include appropriate waste factors based on project complexity and material type. Results are estimates and should be verified by professionals before purchasing materials.
International Residential Code (IRC) R404.1 - Footings(IRC 2021)
View StandardGoverns post footing requirements for residential fencing. Specifies minimum depth, concrete encasement, and structural support standards to prevent frost heaving and ensure stability.
Key Requirements:
- •Posts must be set minimum 6 inches below local frost depth
- •Post footings must extend minimum 12 inches below undisturbed ground
- •Concrete encasement required for structural support
- •Footings must bear on undisturbed soil or engineered fill
IRC Section P2801 - Swimming Pool Barriers(IRC P2801)
View StandardSpecific requirements for pool fencing to prevent child access. Mandates height, spacing, gate hardware, and non-climbable zone specifications. Pool fences ALWAYS require permits and inspections.
Key Requirements:
- •Minimum height: 48 inches measured from grade
- •Maximum opening: 4 inches (prevents child passage)
- •Self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward from pool
- •Gate latch minimum 54 inches from ground (child-proof)
- •Non-climbable zone: No horizontal rails within 45 inches of top
- •All pool fences require building permits and final inspection
ASTM F567 - Chain Link Fence Fabric(ASTM F567)
View StandardStandards for chain link fence materials including wire gauge, mesh size, coating specifications, and tensile strength. Ensures durability and longevity for residential and commercial installations.
Key Requirements:
- •Residential grade: 11-gauge wire minimum, 2-inch mesh
- •Commercial grade: 9-gauge wire, 2-inch mesh
- •Coating options: Galvanized (zinc) or vinyl-coated
- •Minimum tensile strength specifications for wire
ASTM F1083 - Pipe, Steel, Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded(ASTM F1083)
View StandardSpecifications for galvanized steel fence posts and framework. Defines pipe grades, wall thickness, outside diameter, and coating requirements for corrosion resistance.
Key Requirements:
- •Schedule 40 residential: 16-gauge wall (0.065 inch), 2.0 inch OD line posts
- •Commercial grade: All posts 2.5-3 inch OD, heavier gauge
- •Terminal posts (corners, gates): Heavier duty than line posts
- •Hot-dip galvanizing after fabrication for rust protection
Local Setback and Height Regulations(Varies by Municipality)
Property line setbacks and maximum height restrictions vary by local zoning. Most jurisdictions distinguish between front yard, side yard, and backyard fencing with different rules for each.
Key Requirements:
- •Front yard: Typically 3-4 feet maximum height
- •Side/back yard: Typically 6 feet maximum height
- •Property line setback: Usually 0-6 inches from property line
- •Corner lots: Special visibility triangle restrictions (3 ft max)
- •Always verify with local building department before installation
American Fence Association (AFA) Guidelines(Industry Best Practices)
View StandardProfessional installation standards and best practices for fence contractors. Provides guidance on post spacing, materials selection, and construction methods.
Key Requirements:
- •Post spacing: 6-8 feet for wood, 10 feet maximum for chain link
- •One-third rule: Bury 1/3 of post length for stability
- •Concrete cure time: Minimum 48 hours before attaching rails
- •Grade boards recommended for uneven terrain
Standards Disclaimer: Standards and codes are subject to periodic updates. Always verify current requirements with local building authorities and professional engineers before beginning construction. Links provided are for reference only.
Frost Line Depth for Post Footings
IRC R404.1 - Posts must extend below frost line
Post footings must extend below the frost line to prevent heaving from freeze-thaw cycles. Frost depth varies dramatically across the United States and directly determines minimum post hole depth.
Regional Examples:
Height Restrictions and Setback Requirements
Local zoning ordinances - varies by municipality
Maximum fence heights and property line setbacks are determined by local zoning codes. Rules typically differ for front yards, side yards, and backyards. Violations can result in removal orders.
Regional Examples:
Swimming Pool Fence Requirements
IRC P2801 - Barrier Requirements for Swimming Pools
Pool fencing has strict, non-negotiable safety requirements mandated by state and local codes. All pool fences require building permits, inspections, and must meet specific height, opening, and gate specifications.
Regional Examples:
HOA and Deed Restrictions
Private covenants may be more restrictive than code
Homeowner Associations and subdivision deed restrictions often impose fence rules stricter than building codes. These private restrictions are legally enforceable and must be followed even if local building codes allow more freedom.
Regional Examples:
Wind Load and Hurricane Requirements
Structural requirements for high-wind zones
Coastal areas and tornado-prone regions have enhanced structural requirements for fences. High-wind zones may require deeper footings, closer post spacing, or engineered designs.
Regional Examples:
Boundary and Survey Requirements
Legal requirements for property line fencing
Fences on or near property lines may require surveys, neighbor agreements, or specific setbacks. Encroaching on neighbor's property can result in lawsuits and forced removal.
Regional Examples:
Material Restrictions and Fire Codes
Wildfire zones and material limitations
Wildfire-prone areas may restrict flammable fencing materials. Some jurisdictions ban specific materials or require fire-resistant treatments.
Regional Examples:
Before You Build
- •Contact your local building department for specific requirements
- •Verify frost line depths, wind zones, and seismic requirements for your area
- •Check if permits are required and schedule required inspections
- •Consult with a local contractor familiar with local codes
Post spacing depends on fence type: wood privacy fences use 8 feet maximum, chain link spans 10 feet, and horizontal slat fences require 4-6 feet. Posts must be buried 1/3 of total post length with 24" minimum depth, or 6" below frost line, whichever is deeper.
Video Tutorials: See the Calculator in Action
📏 Post Spacing Standards by Fence Type
Wood Privacy Fence
Chain Link Fence
Vinyl/PVC Fence
Horizontal Slat Fence
Split Rail Fence
Ornamental Aluminum/Iron
⚓ Post Depth & Concrete Requirements
| Fence Height | Total Post Length | Burial Depth | Hole Diameter (4×4) | Concrete |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 feet | 6 feet | 24 inches | 12 inches | 1.4 cu ft |
| 6 feet | 8 feet | 24 inches | 12 inches | 1.4 cu ft |
| 6 feet | 9 feet | 30 inches | 12 inches | 1.75 cu ft |
| 6 feet | 9 feet | 36 inches | 12 inches | 2.1 cu ft |
| 8 feet | 12 feet | 48 inches | 12 inches | 2.8 cu ft |
| Post Type | Size Required | Depth | Hole Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line posts | 4×4 (up to 6') or 6×6 (6.5-8') | 24-48 inches | 12" (4×4) or 18" (6×6) |
| Corner posts | 6×6 (upgrade regardless of fence) | +6 inches beyond line posts | 18 inches |
| 3-4 foot gates | 4×4 acceptable, 4×6 recommended | 30-36 inches | 12-15 inches |
| 5-6 foot gates | 6×6 required | 36-42 inches | 18 inches |
| 10-12 foot double gates | 6×6 minimum or 8×8 heavy | 42-48 inches | 18-24 inches |
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🏗️ Concrete & Gravel Specifications
Concrete Bag Yield
Typical Bag Requirements
Gravel Base Requirements
Standard: Install 6 inches of compacted 3/4-inch crushed stone or 21AA packing gravel at bottom of each hole before setting posts.
Benefits: Provides drainage, reduces frost heaving, prevents wood rot, extends post life by 30-50%.
Calculation: Subtract gravel depth from concrete calculation. A 30-inch deep hole with 6-inch gravel base needs only 24 inches of concrete.
Fast-Setting vs Regular Concrete
Fast-Setting (Quikrete)
- • No mixing required - pour dry, add water
- • 1 gallon water per 50 lb bag
- • Sets in 20-40 minutes
- • 3,000 PSI strength
- • Costs 10-15% more
- • Perfect for fence posts
Regular Concrete Mix
- • Requires mixing
- • Sets in 24-48 hours
- • 4,000 PSI with proper curing
- • Lower cost
- • Requires overnight bracing
- • Use for structural deck posts
❄️ Frost Line Depth Requirements
Posts must extend 6 inches below local frost depth. This requirement overrides the 1/3 rule in cold climates. Never set posts less than 24 inches deep regardless of fence height.
Deep Frost States
- • Minnesota: 80 inches
- • North Dakota: 75 inches
- • Wisconsin: 65 inches
- • Michigan: 42-48 inches
Moderate Frost States
- • Illinois: 36 inches
- • Ohio: 32 inches
- • Pennsylvania: 30-36 inches
- • New York: 32-42 inches
No Frost States
- • Florida: 0 inches
- • Hawaii: 0 inches
- • Southern California: 0-12 inches
- • Gulf Coast: 0-6 inches
🪵 Wood Fence Material Specifications
Actual vs Nominal Lumber Dimensions
Lumber dimensions create calculation complexity. Always use actual dimensions for material estimates - calculating with nominal sizes produces significant errors.
| Nominal Size | Actual Size | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1×6 | 3/4" × 5.5" | Privacy fence pickets |
| 1×4 | 3/4" × 3.5" | Picket fence, board-on-board |
| 2×4 | 1.5" × 3.5" | Rails (horizontal supports) |
| 4×4 | 3.5" × 3.5" | Posts (up to 6' fences) |
| 6×6 | 5.5" × 5.5" | Posts (6.5-8' fences, corners, gates) |
Rail Requirements by Fence Height
Formula: 1 rail per 2 feet of fence height.
Standard 2×4 rails (1.5" × 3.5" actual) work for most applications. Use 16-foot rails when possible to span two 8-foot sections, staggering joints for strength.
Picket Calculation Formulas
Standard Privacy Fence (butted or spaced boards)
Formula: Boards per Linear Foot = 12 ÷ (Board Actual Width + Spacing)
• 5.5" boards with zero gap: 12 ÷ 5.5 = 2.18 boards/foot
• 5.5" boards with 1" gap: 12 ÷ 6.5 = 1.85 boards/foot
• For 8-foot section with no gaps: ~18 pickets
• For 8-foot section with 1" gaps: ~15 pickets
Board-on-Board (overlapping pickets on both sides)
Requires approximately 30% more material than standard privacy. First layer boards space 1.5" apart, second layer covers gaps with 1-1.5" overlap.
• 8-foot section with 5.5" boards: 24 pickets
• 8-foot section with 3.5" boards: 38 pickets
Picket Fence (3-4 feet tall with gaps)
Traditional spacing: 2-4 inch gaps between pickets. Most codes allow 4-inch maximum gaps; pool enclosures strictly limit gaps to prevent child passage.
• 3.5" pickets with 2.5" gaps: 16 pickets per 96" section
• 3.5" pickets with 4" gaps: 12 pickets per 96" section
🔩 Fastener & Hardware Specifications
Screw Specifications for Wood Fencing
Required Sizes
- • 1.5-1.75 inches: Pickets to rails
- • 2.5 inches: General assembly
- • 3 inches: Rails to posts
- • Gauge: #8-#10 gauge
All outdoor fasteners must be hot-dipped galvanized, coated, or stainless steel. Standard screws cost 6-7 cents each versus 1-1.5 cents for ring shank nails, but screws provide superior holding power.
Quantity Formula
Total Fasteners = (Rails × 4) + (Pickets × Rails × 2)
Each rail needs 4 fasteners (2 per end). Each picket needs 2 fasteners per rail.
Example: 6-foot fence with 3 rails and 549 pickets requires 3,306 fasteners.
Post Caps
Post caps protect against water intrusion and rot, extending post life significantly.
4×4 Post Caps
Accommodate 3.375 to 4.1875-inch range (actual 3.5" × 3.5" posts)
6×6 Post Caps
Fit 5.375 to 6.125 inches (actual 5.5" × 5.5" posts)
UV-resistant ASA resin: 10-year warranty, best durability
Powder-coated metal: Cap Claw designs for flexibility
Traditional wood: Not recommended due to rot susceptibility
🚪 Gate Hardware & Specifications
Standard Gate Widths
Gate Frame Construction
Material: 2×4 lumber for gates up to 6 feet wide and 6 feet tall. Upgrade to 4×4 lumber for wider or commercial applications.
CRITICAL - Z-Bracing Direction: The diagonal brace must run from BOTTOM hinge corner to TOP latch corner, placing the brace in compression. This prevents sagging. Running the brace the opposite direction (top hinge to bottom latch) will result in gate failure.
Cross-bracing (X-pattern): Provides maximum stability for gates 8+ feet wide.
Fasteners: All joints require exterior deck screws with pre-drilled holes. Never use nails for gate construction.
| Gate Size | Weight Range | Hinge Count | Hinge Size | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-4 feet wide | Up to 75 lbs | 2 minimum | 6-8" strap or T-hinges | None required |
| 4-6 feet wide | 75-125 lbs | 2-3 hinges | 8-10" heavy-duty strap | 3 hinges if over 75 lbs |
| 6 feet wide | 125-150 lbs | 3 required | 10-12" heavy-duty strap | Support wheel + anti-sag cable |
| 10-12 feet double | 125-150 lbs per leaf | 3 per leaf | 12-14" heavy-duty | Support wheels mandatory |
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🏊 Pool Fence Code Requirements
Mandatory Safety Requirements
Pool barriers are strictly regulated. Non-compliance can result in fines, insurance issues, and serious child safety risks. Always check local codes - requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Minimum Height: 48 inches
Measured from ground level. Cannot be less than 4 feet under any circumstances.
Maximum Opening: 4 inches
Barriers must not allow passage of 4-inch diameter sphere. Closer-spaced members limited to 1.75-inch maximum spacing. Chain link requires 1.25-inch maximum mesh or privacy slats reducing spacing to 1.75 inches.
Gate Requirements
Must open outward from pool. Self-closing and self-latching from any open position. Latch mounted 54 inches minimum from ground or equipped with locking mechanism. Self-closing mechanisms mandatory per ICC and CPSC requirements.
Non-Climbable Zone
Horizontal members less than 45 inches apart must be on pool side of fence. Vertical spacing not exceeding 1.75 inches. Clear zone of 36 inches minimum between barrier exterior and any climbable structures or equipment.
Bottom Clearance
Maximum 2 inches for non-solid surfaces (grass, gravel). Maximum 4 inches for solid surfaces (concrete, decking).
Self-Closing Hardware Options
TruClose Hinges
- • Regular: up to 66 lbs
- • Heavy-duty: up to 154 lbs
- • Adjustable tension
- • UV-stabilized polymer
Waterson Hydraulic Hinges
- • Supports up to 440 lbs
- • 3 adjustable speed settings
- • Stainless steel construction
- • Commercial grade
📐 Height Regulations & Building Codes
Common Residential Height Standards
Front Yards
3-4 feet maximum height (standard across most jurisdictions). Often must be 50-75% open construction (picket or ornamental styles). Front setback typically extends 20 feet from property line.
Backyards
6 feet standard without permits (most common). 7-8 feet maximum with building permits and approvals. Privacy fences can be solid construction in backyards.
Corner Lots - Visibility Triangles
30-50 feet measured from corner along both roadways. 3-foot maximum fence height within triangle. Trees must have branches no lower than specified height (often 8 feet). Traffic engineer approval may be required.
Height Measurement Standards
Standard measurement: From lowest grade at fence base to top of fence.
Grade differential: When finished grades differ by less than 2 feet between properties, measure from highest parcel. Artificially altered grades (fill creating slopes exceeding 1 foot per 3 feet distance) include altered grade height in calculations.
Decorative elements: Decorative posts and caps may extend 4 inches above maximum height limits in most jurisdictions.
🔢 Material Calculation Formulas
Example: 200 Linear Feet Wood Privacy Fence (6 feet tall)
Step 1: Calculate posts
Formula: Posts = (Linear feet ÷ Spacing) + 1, round up
Posts = (200 ÷ 8) + 1 = 25 + 1 = 26 posts
Note: Corner posts share between fence lines (don't double-count). Gate posts replace line posts.
Step 2: Calculate rails
Sections = 200 ÷ 8 = 25 sections
Rails per section = 3 (6' fence uses 3 rails)
Total rails = 25 × 3 = 75 rails (2×4×8')
Use 16-foot rails when possible to span two 8-foot sections, staggering joints.
Step 3: Calculate pickets (5.5" boards, no gaps)
Formula: Boards per foot = 12 ÷ (Actual width + Gap)
Boards per foot = 12 ÷ 5.5 = 2.18
Total pickets = 200 × 2.18 = 436 pickets
Add 10-15% waste factor: 436 × 1.10 = 480 pickets to order
Step 4: Calculate concrete
Posts = 26
Bags per post = 2-3 (80 lb bags for 30" depth)
Total bags = 26 × 2.5 = 65 bags (80 lb)
Use 3 bags for corner and gate posts (deeper/larger holes)
Step 5: Calculate fasteners
Formula: (Rails × 4) + (Pickets × Rails × 2)
Fasteners = (75 × 4) + (436 × 3 × 2)
Fasteners = 300 + 2,616 = 2,916 screws
Order 3,000 screws (includes spare for errors)
Quick Reference Formulas
Posts = (Linear feet ÷ Spacing) + 1
Sections = Posts - 1
Rails per section = Fence height ÷ 24 inches
Total rails = Sections × Rails per section
Pickets per foot = 12 ÷ (Actual width + Gap spacing)
Total pickets = Linear feet × Pickets per foot
Hole diameter = 3 × Post width
📊 Waste Factors by Material
Apply waste factors by multiplying raw quantity by (1 + waste decimal). Always round up to nearest selling unit.
Wood fencing
Basic projects 10%, complex cuts 15%
Vinyl fencing
Consistent panel sizes reduce waste
Chain link
Roll flexibility allows exact cutting
Example: 100 linear feet with 10% waste = 100 × 1.10 = 110 feet to order
Extra material proves useful for repairs and accounts for cutting errors, defects, and irregular property lines.
🛡️ Pressure-Treated Lumber Requirements
Critical: All posts and lumber within 6 inches of ground require ground-contact rating with 0.15 MCA retention level (UC4A rating for permanent burial). Above-ground lumber uses lower retention at reduced cost.
Wood Species Characteristics
Western Red Cedar
- • Natural rot resistance without treatment
- • Stable dimensions, minimal warping
- • Lifespan: 20-30 years
- • Premium cost but excellent durability
Southern Yellow Pine (Pressure-Treated)
- • Economical strength, widely available
- • More warping and checking than cedar
- • Lifespan: 15-20 years with proper treatment
- • Most common residential choice
Redwood
- • Premium durability with beautiful color
- • Excellent natural rot resistance
- • Lifespan: 20-25+ years
- • Costs approximately 3× pressure-treated pine
Black Locust (Split Rail)
- • Exceptional durability for posts
- • Lifespan: 50+ years in ground contact
- • Primarily used in split rail applications
- • Superior to treated wood for longevity
Lumber Grades
#1 Grade: Fewer knots, better appearance, tighter grain
#2 (Construction) Grade: Standard framing quality with acceptable knots (most residential fencing)
Select/Premium: Minimal knots for high appearance applications
Clear Grade: No knots or defects at premium pricing
📚 Building Codes & Industry Standards
International Residential Code (IRC) R404.1 - Footings
Post footings must extend below frost line or 24-inch minimum depth. Requires concrete encasement for structural support. Posts must be set 6 inches below local frost depth.
IRC P2801 - Swimming Pool Barriers
Minimum 48-inch height. Self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward from pool. Latch 54 inches from ground. Maximum 4-inch openings. Non-climbable zone requirements. Always requires permits and inspections.
ASTM F567 - Chain Link Fence Fabric
Standards for wire gauge (11-gauge residential, 9-gauge commercial), 2-inch mesh size, coating specifications (galvanized or vinyl-coated). Ensures structural integrity and longevity.
ASTM F1083 - Pipe, Steel, Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded
Specifications for fence framework posts. HF20 residential grade (16-gauge, 0.065" wall, 2" OD line posts). HF40 commercial grade (all posts 2.5-3" OD).
Local Setback & Height Requirements
Property line fences typically require 0-6 inch setback from property line. Height restrictions: 6 feet backyard standard, 3-4 feet front yard maximum. Corner lot visibility triangles limit to 3 feet. Always verify local ordinances before installation.
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Want to Learn More?
Step-by-step video tutorial: estimate materials for a wood privacy fence. Inputs and results for posts, pickets, rails, and concrete bags.
Read the Wood privacy fence video tutorialSize a dumpster for this debris
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the standard spacing for fence posts?
Standard fence post spacing is 8 feet on-center for most residential fences per IRC guidelines. Privacy fences may use 6-foot spacing for added strength. High-wind areas or tall fences (over 6 feet) require 6-foot spacing. Corner and gate posts need concrete footings regardless of soil type.
How deep should fence posts be buried?
Fence posts should be buried one-third of total post length (1/3 rule). A 6-foot fence requires 8-9 foot posts buried 2-3 feet deep. Frost line requirements vary by region: northern climates may require 42-48 inches depth, southern regions 18-24 inches per local codes.
How many pickets do I need per section?
For 8-foot sections with 5.5-inch pickets and 1-inch gaps, you need approximately 15 pickets. For 3.5-inch pickets with 2-inch gaps, you need 17-18 pickets. Tight-board fences (no gaps) require 17-18 boards per 8-foot section depending on board width.
How much concrete do I need per fence post?
Standard 4×4 posts in 8-inch diameter holes require approximately 0.15 cubic feet (1.5 bags) of concrete per post. 6×6 posts in 12-inch holes need 0.35 cubic feet (3-4 bags) per post. Corner and gate posts should use 50% more concrete for stability.