Fence Calculator

Guide

How the amount is worked out

Panels = (fence run − gate widths) ÷ panel width, rounded up. A straight run needs one more post than it has sections, and each gate adds a section: posts = panels + gates + 1. Rails = panels × rails per panel, for fences built from rails and palings.

Example. 12 m of fence with 1.8 m panels is 6.67, so 7 panels and 8 posts.

Concrete for the posts

Each post sits in a hole, and the hole’s volume sets the concrete you need. Use the concrete calculator with the post hole shape, or follow the button below the result to carry the post count across.

Common mistakes

• Counting panels but not posts. A run of 7 panels has 8 posts.
• Forgetting that gates need stronger posts and hardware.
• Ignoring corners and slopes. Corners add posts, and a sloping run needs stepped or racked panels, which this tool does not model.

Safety and rules

Before you dig, request plans of underground services from Before You Dig Australia, and check council rules and any approvals that apply to your property. Dividing fences are shared with your neighbour and carry their own rules on cost sharing, notice and height, which differ by state, so check before you build. This is not building or structural advice.

Common questions