Fence boards sound simple, but the right number depends on board width, the gap between boards and the fence height. Here's the easy method.
With 14 cm wide boards and a 1 cm gap, you'll need about 7 boards per metre of fence. For a 180 cm tall fence that's 7 boards × 180 cm per metre of run.
Boards per metre = 100 cm ÷ (board width + gap). 100 ÷ 15 = 6.7 → round up to 7 boards.
Total boards = boards per metre × fence length in metres.
Add 5 % for waste. Boards that crack on the way home or get end-trimmed add up fast.
12 m × 7 boards/m = 84 boards at 180 cm. Add 5 % waste and you're at 88. With 14 cm boards that's about 75 linear metres of board total – mix lengths to fit what your supplier stocks.
The calculator works out boards, posts and screws from your fence length and height.
10–14 cm is common. Narrower boards give a more classic look and are easier to handle solo.
5–10 mm. Wood moves with the weather, so without a gap the boards crush together and the fence bows out.
Yes for outdoor fencing. Treated softwood lasts 15–20 years. Larch or cedar can be left untreated.
2 screws per rail. With 2 rails you'll use 4 screws per board.
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