How many fence pickets do I need?
Add one gap to the fence-run length. Divide by the picket width plus the gap.
For one 100 ft run, 214 pickets are necessary with 5.5 in pickets and a 0.125 in gap.
| Picket width | No gap | 0.125 in gap | 0.5 in gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 in | 343 | 332 | 301 |
| 5.5 in | 219 | 214 | 201 |
The quantities do not include more material, gates, or other openings.
Picket formula
Change the run length to inches. Add one gap to this length.
Divide by the picket width plus the gap. If the result is not whole, increase it to the next whole number.
Fence runs
Calculate each continuous run separately. Stop the run at a corner, gate, or fence end.
Do not include gate openings in the picket length. Add the whole-picket quantity for each run.
Measured picket width
Measure the face width of one picket. A nominal lumber size can be different from the measured width.
Use the specified gap. A small error in this value has a large effect on a long fence.
More material and layout
Add more material for cuts and damage. When the color and profile must agree, keep more pickets.
Use the fence calculator to calculate pickets, rails, posts, concrete, and cost.
Important information
- Measure the picket width.
- Remove each gate opening from the fence-run length.
- Do a check of the gap before you get the material.