Fence Picket Calculator

What Is a Fence Picket Calculator?

A fence picket calculator estimates how many vertical pickets you need for a fence run. Enter total fence length, picket width, and spacing between pickets to get a rounded-up count for ordering lumber.

Fence Picket Formula

$$ N = \left\lceil \frac{\text{Fence length}}{\text{Picket width} + \text{Picket spacing}} \right\rceil $$

Convert all measurements to the same unit before dividing. Typical picket widths are 3.5 in, 5.5 in, or 11.5 in with 1 to 6 in spacing. For full material lists, use the Fence Calculator or Board on Board Fence Calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pickets for a 100-foot fence?

With 5.5 in wide pickets and 2.5 in spacing, you need about 150 pickets. With 3.5 in wide pickets and 2.5 in spacing, you need about 200 pickets.

How many pickets for a 200-foot fence?

Using 5 in wide pickets with 1 in spacing gives 400 pickets. Wider pickets or larger gaps change the count significantly.

Should I buy extra pickets?

Yes. Buy 5 to 10 percent extra for cuts, defects, and future repairs. The calculator rounds up but does not include waste allowance.

What is the difference between a picket and a panel?

A picket is one vertical board. A panel is a pre-built fence section with multiple pickets and a frame already assembled.

Do picket width and spacing use the same units?

Yes. Convert fence length to inches (or use the same unit throughout) before applying the formula. Mixing feet and inches without conversion gives wrong results.

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What Is a Fence Picket Calculator?

Fence Picket Formula

Frequently Asked Questions

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