Fence Calculator for a Backyard
Estimate posts, panels and concrete for a backyard fence.
A backyard privacy fence is one of the most common DIY fence projects. Standard privacy fences are 6 ft tall with 8 ft post spacing. Posts sink 24–36 in deep (below frost line) in concrete, and each post takes about 2 bags of 60 lb concrete mix.
Posts
14
Panels
13
38 rails
60 lb concrete bags
27
~2 per post
Save this project
Sign in to save calculations to your dashboard.
Download your PDF report & project guide
Your results and inputs, a printable shopping list, a step-by-step guide and pro tips — in one PDF.
Planning a whole project?
Get every calculator, a full shopping list and a budget template for:
Recommended tools & materials
Handy picks for this project on Amazon.
Speed Square
Fast angle and rafter layout
View on Amazon →
Framing Nailer
Drive framing nails in seconds
View on Amazon →
Construction Screws
Structural, coated, no pilot hole
View on Amazon →
25 ft Tape Measure
Durable, easy-to-read blade
View on Amazon →
As an Amazon Associate, MaterialCalc earns from qualifying purchases.
How does the fence calculator work?
Posts = fence length ÷ spacing + 1 (for the end post). Panels = length ÷ spacing. Rails = panels × rails-per-section (2 for short fences, 3 for tall or heavy panels). Plan on ~2 bags of 60 lb concrete per post.
What else do people ask about this calculator?
How many posts for a 100 ft backyard fence?
At 8 ft spacing: 13 posts (100 ÷ 8 + 1). Add extra posts at every corner and gate.
How deep should backyard fence posts be?
24–36 in for a 6 ft fence, always below the frost line for your region. Set posts in concrete for the best long-term stability.
How many fence posts do I need for 100 feet?
At 8 ft spacing you need 13 posts (12 sections + 1 end post). At 6 ft spacing, 17 posts.
How much concrete per fence post?
About 1.5–2 bags of 60 lb pre-mix per post for a 4×4 post in a 10 in wide, 24 in deep hole.
Which related calculators should I use next?
All calculators