Each gate counts as 1 post spacing gap (no pickets)
Posts = Total Length ÷ Post Spacing + 1 (one post at each end). Rails = Posts × Number of Rails. Pickets = (Total Length − Gates × Spacing) ÷ (Picket Width + Gap). Always add 10% to your order to allow for cuts, defects and future repairs.
A typical quarter-acre residential lot has a perimeter of roughly 130–160 metres (420–525 feet), depending on the shape. For a standard 1.8 m (6 ft) wooden privacy fence with posts every 2.4 m (8 ft), you'd need around 55–67 posts, 110–134 rails, and approximately 870–1050 pickets. Gates reduce the picket count slightly. Use the calculator above with your actual perimeter for a precise bill of materials.
Privacy fences use solid boards (pickets) with no gaps — ideal for backyards where you want screening from neighbours. Picket fences have gaps between boards and a lower height (typically 1–1.2 m), giving a classic look for front gardens. Panel fences use pre-built sections that slot between posts, making installation faster. Chain-link fencing is the most affordable option for large areas but offers no privacy. For a balance of airflow and partial privacy, consider a shadowbox (board-on-board) design where pickets alternate on each side of the rail.
Pressure-treated pine is the most affordable wood option — expect it to last 15–20 years with regular staining or sealing. Cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant and can last 20–30 years, but cost 2–3 times more. Vinyl (PVC) fencing never needs painting or staining and won't rot, but it costs more upfront and can become brittle in extreme cold. For most homeowners, pressure-treated pine with a stain is the best value.
Each fence post hole typically needs one to two 20 kg bags of quick-set concrete mix. A standard post hole is 250–300 mm (10–12 inches) in diameter and 600–900 mm (2–3 feet) deep. For a 30-metre fence with 13 posts, budget for 15–25 bags of concrete. Quick-set concrete is convenient for DIY — you can pour it dry into the hole, add water, and the post is set firm within 20–40 minutes.
Divide the total fence length by the post spacing (typically 1.8m or 6ft), then add 1. For example, a 36m fence with 1.8m spacing: 36 / 1.8 = 20 sections + 1 = 21 posts. Corner posts and gate posts are additional. This fence calculator does this automatically.
Standard fence post spacing is 1.8 metres (6 feet) for most timber and vinyl fences. For chain-link fencing, spacing can go up to 3 metres (10 feet). Closer spacing (1.2-1.5m) is used for heavy-duty or security fencing. Wider spacing reduces material costs but requires stronger rails.
A general rule is to bury 1/3 of the total post length. For a 1.8m fence requiring a 2.4m post, bury 0.8m underground. In areas with frost, posts should be below the frost line to prevent heaving. Concrete footing significantly improves post stability and lifespan.
Posts are the vertical supports driven into the ground. Rails (or rails) are the horizontal boards that run between posts and support the pickets. Pickets are the vertical boards that make up the visible face of the fence. The number of rails depends on fence height (typically 2-3 rails for a standard fence).
Costs vary widely by material and region. Timber fencing typically costs $50-$120 per linear metre installed. Colorbond/metal fencing $100-$200 per metre. Vinyl fencing $80-$150 per metre. DIY installation can halve the labour cost. This calculator helps you estimate materials before getting quotes.
A quarter-acre lot typically has a perimeter of 130 to 160 metres (420 to 525 feet), depending on the shape. A square quarter-acre lot is about 32 metres per side (105 feet), giving a perimeter of 128 metres. Use a fence calculator with your actual measurements to get an exact material list.
Fencing costs depend on material, height, and length. Pressure-treated pine costs roughly $10-25 per linear foot installed, cedar $15-35, and vinyl $20-40. A 150-foot fence in treated pine might cost $1,500-3,750 for materials and $2,000-5,000 installed. This calculator helps you estimate materials so you can get accurate quotes.
In most areas, yes — especially for fences above a certain height (often 1.2m or 4 feet for front yards and 1.8m or 6 feet for back yards). Check with your local council or municipality before building. You may also need to check property boundaries with a surveyor to avoid building on your neighbour's land. Some areas also have rules about fence styles in heritage or conservation zones.