Fence Linear Footage Calculator
Find the linear feet of fence to buy, with gate openings taken off.
Enter your yard dimensions and the calculator subtracts gate openings to give you the actual fence length to buy materials for.
Calculation Results
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🛠️ How This Calculator Works
The calculator computes the perimeter of your yard based on shape, then subtracts the total width of gate openings to give you the actual length of fence material you need to buy.
📐 Formula
Fence LF = Perimeter − (gate count × gate width)📝 Example Calculation
A 100 × 50 ft rectangular yard with one 4 ft gate: Perimeter = 2 × (100 + 50) = 300 ft Fence LF = 300 − 4 = 296 ft
💡 Pro Tips from Fence Builders
- Always add 5–10% extra to your purchase to cover cuts and waste.
- Measure twice — pull a tape from corner to corner, don't pace it.
- Check property survey or pin markers before placing posts on the line.
- Walk the perimeter and note slope changes — they affect picket length.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Should I subtract gate openings from my fence linear footage?
Yes — gates take the place of fence panels, so you don't need fence material in those spots. Subtract the total gate width from the perimeter.
How much extra fencing should I buy?
Add 5–10% for cuts, waste and damaged pieces. For uneven terrain or stepped panels, go closer to 15%.
What's the difference between linear footage and square footage?
Linear footage is a one-dimensional length (like a rope along the ground). Square footage is area. Fences are sold by linear foot.
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This page turns yard sides into linear feet of fence to buy. For the plain distance around a triangle, circle, regular polygon or any list of sides (with area), use the perimeter calculator, then come back here to take off gates.