Fence Post Calculator
Count line, corner and gate posts for any fence.
Enter your fence length and post spacing to get the total number of posts plus a cost estimate.
Standard: 8 ft
Include both ends (min 2)
Calculation Results
Planning estimate — actual quotes vary
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📌 Use 4×4 line posts and 6×6 corner / gate posts for stiffness.
Choosing wood, steel or vinyl posts? See our fence post buying guide.
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🛠️ How This Calculator Works
The calculator divides your fence length by post spacing and adds 1 for the starting post — that is every post position along the run, including the corner and end posts. Corner / end posts (at least 2, one at each end) are taken out of that count, the rest are line posts, and each gate adds two gate posts (one on each side of the opening).
📐 Formula
Line Posts = ⌈length / spacing⌉ + 1 − corner/end posts; Total = line + corner/end + (gates × 2)📝 Example Calculation
150 ft fence, 8 ft spacing, 1 gate, 4 corner/end posts: Post positions = ⌈150 / 8⌉ + 1 = 20 Line posts = 20 − 4 = 16 Gate posts = 1 × 2 = 2 Total = 16 + 4 + 2 = 22 posts
💡 Pro Tips from Fence Builders
- Use 4×4 line posts and 6×6 posts at corners and gates for stiffness.
- Standard wood-fence spacing is 6–8 ft; chain link can stretch to 10 ft.
- Set posts at least 1/3 of the fence height into the ground.
- Always brace gate posts in concrete — they take the most stress.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart should fence posts be?
6–8 ft on center for wood and vinyl; up to 10 ft for chain link. Closer spacing means a stiffer, longer-lasting fence.
Do gate posts need to be bigger?
Yes — use 6×6 posts (vs 4×4 for line posts) and set them in extra concrete to handle the swinging gate weight.
How deep should fence posts go?
At least 1/3 the above-ground height, plus 6 inches of gravel for drainage. A 6-ft fence needs 2-ft+ deep holes.
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