Picket Fence Calculator
Pickets, rails and posts for a picket fence.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- 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))
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.
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.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.