Fence calculator
Calculate posts, boards and screws for a simple wooden fence.
Fence calculator
Calculate how many posts, fence boards and screws you need for a simple timber fence based on length, height and spacing.
Typically 1.8–2.4 metres depending on fence type
Your fence project
6 posts, 106 boards and 424 screws for 10 m fence
Fence length
10 m
Fence height
1.8 m
Posts
6 pcs
Boards
106 pcs
Screws
424 pcs
Materials
106 boards for 10 m fence
Post every 2.0 m
Buy 3 packs of 200 pcs = 600 pcs (surplus 176 pcs)
ℹThe result is an estimate based on fence length, board width, gap, post spacing and waste.
ℹActual requirements may vary depending on fence type, fittings, post anchoring and terrain.
Example: 10 metre fence
If you build a 10 metre fence with posts every 2 metres, 95 mm boards with 10 mm gaps and 10 % waste, you need 6 posts, about 106 fence boards and 424 screws.
Calculation for a 10 m fence at 1.8 m height:
The number of boards depends on the chosen gap width. Narrower gaps mean more boards.
How to calculate fence materials
Post spacing matters
Posts carry the entire fence and the distance between them determines stability. 2 metres is standard for most timber fences. Shorter spacing (1.8 m) gives a stronger fence, while 2.4 m suits lighter types. Remember there is always one more post than the number of sections.
Gaps affect board count
A 10 mm gap between boards is typical for a classic picket fence. For a solid fence with no gaps, set the gap to 0. Even a few millimetres' difference in gap changes the total board count over a long run.
Always add waste
Boards can have knots, cracks or need cutting at posts and corners. 10 % extra is a good starting point. For complicated corners or terrain 15 % may be more realistic.
Terrain and fittings may change requirements
Sloping terrain requires board length adjustments or stepped sections. Brackets, top rails and extra reinforcement at gates are not included in this calculator but should be considered in the final shopping list.
How to use this calculator
Four quick steps – you don't need to be a tradesperson to follow them.
- Measure the total length of the fence you're building.
- Pick the height (e.g. 180 cm) and the post spacing (usually 180–200 cm).
- Choose the board width so the calculator can work out boards per metre.
- Check the post, board and screw counts – round up when you go shopping.
Common mistakes
Small things that often cost an extra trip to the hardware store.
- Spacing posts too far apart – the fence sags and twists over time.
- Skipping post anchors – timber sunk straight into soil rots quickly.
- Forgetting a kicker board or foundation – a fence is only as good as its base.
- Not checking the boundary with your neighbour first.
Example: a 12 m fence, 180 cm tall
A 12 m fence with posts every 200 cm needs 7 posts. With 14 cm wide boards and a 1 cm gap you'll use about 8 boards per metre – around 96 boards in total. Add 5 % waste and a few extra screws on top.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions we hear most often about this calculator.
How far apart can the posts be?
180–200 cm is standard for a stable fence. Wider spacings usually need thicker posts or extra bracing.
Should posts be set in concrete?
Yes, or use a metal post anchor. Pressure-treated timber straight in the soil rots within a few years.
How many screws per board?
Usually 2 screws per board per rail. The calculator factors that in.
Do I need permission to build a fence?
It depends on height and location. Many places allow up to 180 cm on a boundary without permission – check your local rules.
Use the results in a real project
With MyPlanDIY you can save materials, create budgets, track tasks and bring everything together in one project.
No credit card required. Free demo project included.
See also
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