Fencing
Fence Picket Calculator
Estimate fence pickets from fence length, picket width, spacing gap, and waste factor.
Fencing
Calculator inputs
Fence Picket Calculator Results
Results update in your browser as you edit inputs. They are planning estimates, not complete shopping lists.
Enter project dimensions to calculate material quantity.
Assumptions
- The calculator estimates pickets only, not posts, rails, gates, hardware, or concrete.
- It assumes a straight run with consistent picket width and gap.
- Gate openings and corner transitions should be measured separately.
- Picket counts are rounded up to whole pieces.
- Check local building codes, permit requirements, product labels, and qualified professionals for structural or safety-critical work.
- Any cost estimate uses only the unit price you enter. No store or local price data is used.
Formula
- Fence length in inches = fence length in feet x 12.
- Picket module = picket width + gap.
- Pickets needed = ceil((fence length in inches + one gap) / picket module).
- Pickets including waste = ceil(pickets needed x (1 + waste factor)).
Example calculation
Example: 100 ft fence
A 100 ft fence using 5.5 in pickets with a 0.25 in gap needs about 209 pickets before waste and 220 pickets with 5% waste.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting gates and corners change material planning.
- Using nominal board width instead of actual picket width.
- Assuming this includes posts, rails, and fasteners.
FAQ
Does this include fence posts?
No. It estimates pickets only.
Can I use zero gap?
Yes. Enter 0 for the gap, but remember wood can move with moisture.