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.
Calculator inputs
Fence Picket Calculator Results
Results update in your browser as you edit inputs. Use the shopping-list button for a printable project summary.
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.
Sources and review notes
Reviewed . These references support the unit conversions and planning assumptions on this page. Confirm the exact product label and local project requirements before buying material.
- How the calculations work HomeMaterialCalc. How HomeMaterialCalc handles formulas, rounding, browser-based calculations, and prices you enter.
- NIST Guide to the SI, Appendix B: Conversion Factors National Institute of Standards and Technology. Length, area, and volume unit conversions used in calculator formulas.