Picket Fence Calculator
Pickets, rails and posts for a picket fence.
Enter your values
Enter the fence length in ft.
Enter the picket width in in.
Enter the gap between pickets in in.
Enter the post spacing in ft.
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.
- Pickets needed
- 219
- Posts needed
- 14
- Horizontal rails (2 per section)
- 26
Quick answer
Picket count comes from fence length divided by picket width plus the gap between pickets.
pickets = ceil(length / (picket width + gap))
At a glance
| What it does | Pickets, rails and posts for a picket fence. |
|---|---|
| Category | Home & DIY |
| Inputs needed | Fence length, Picket width, Gap between pickets, Post spacing |
| Main output | Pickets needed |
| Formula | pickets = ceil(length / (picket width + gap)) |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Picket Fence Calculator
- 1Measure the fence length and decide picket width and gap.
- 2Set a post spacing, usually 6-8 feet.
- 3Buy two horizontal rails per section for a standard picket fence.
Inputs explained
- Fence length(ft)
- Enter the fence length in ft.
- Picket width(in)
- Enter the picket width in in.
- Gap between pickets(in)
- Enter the gap between pickets in in.
- Post spacing(ft)
- Enter the post spacing in ft.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Fence length100 ft
- Picket width3.5 in
- Gap between pickets2 in
- Post spacing8 ft
Results
- Pickets needed219
- Posts needed14
- Horizontal rails (2 per section)26
Frequently asked questions
What gap looks best?
1.5-2 inches between pickets is a common look that balances privacy and airflow.
Do I need a kickboard?
A bottom kickboard helps keep pickets off the ground and out of standing water.
What do I need to enter into the Picket Fence Calculator?
Just 4 values: fence length, picket width, gap between pickets, post spacing. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.
How does the Picket Fence Calculator work out the answer?
Picket count comes from fence length divided by picket width plus the gap between pickets. It applies the formula pickets = ceil(length / (picket width + gap)) and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Picket Fence Calculator free, and do I need an account?
It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.