Worked example

How Many Fence Pickets for a 100 Foot Fence?

This example estimates picket quantity for a straight 100 ft fence run using 5.5 in pickets and a 0.25 in gap.

Fencing

Calculator inputs

Fence Picket Calculator Results

Results update in your browser as you edit inputs. They are planning estimates, not complete shopping lists.

Enter project dimensions to calculate material quantity.

Inputs used in this example

Fence length: 100 feet.
Picket width: 5.5 inches.
Gap: 0.25 inches.
Waste factor: 5%.

Expected output

The calculator estimates about 209 pickets before waste and 220 pickets after applying a 5% waste factor.

When to adjust this example

Measure gate openings and corner transitions separately.
Use actual picket width, not nominal board width.
This example does not include posts, rails, gates, concrete, hardware, permits, or slope adjustments.

Formula explanation

Convert 100 feet to 1200 inches.
Add picket width and gap to get one picket module.
Divide fence length plus one gap by the module and round up.
Apply the waste factor and round up.

Main calculator

Use the full Fence Picket Calculator to change dimensions, waste factor, and optional user-entered unit price.

FAQ

Does this include posts?

No. This example estimates pickets only.

Can I use a zero gap?

Yes. Enter 0 for gap in the embedded calculator, but account for material movement and project requirements.