Wood Fence Calculator
Calculate exact wood fence materials: pickets, boards, rails, posts, and hardware for privacy, shadow box, or picket style fences.
How It Works
This calculator determines exact board count based on your fence length, board width, and gap setting. For privacy fences, boards are placed edge-to-edge. Shadow box style uses boards on alternating sides of the rail, using about 60% more boards. Picket style includes the specified gap between boards. Rail count is based on fence height: 2 rails for fences under 6 feet, 3 rails for 6 feet and above.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fence boards do I need per foot?
For privacy fence with 5.5" (1x6) boards and no gap: about 2.2 boards per foot. With 3.5" (1x4) boards: about 3.4 per foot. Add 10% for waste and cuts.
What's the difference between privacy and shadow box?
Privacy fence has boards placed side by side with no gaps, blocking all visibility. Shadow box alternates boards on each side of the rails, using about 60% more lumber but allowing some airflow while still providing privacy from most angles.
Should I use 1x4 or 1x6 fence boards?
1x6 boards are most common for privacy fences — they cover more area faster and use fewer boards. 1x4 boards are traditional for picket fences and shadow box styles. 1x6 is generally more cost-effective per linear foot of fence.
How much wood should I add for waste?
Add 10% for waste on boards and rails. This accounts for cut-offs, warped boards, knots, and installation errors. For complex layouts with many corners, add 15%.