Fence Picket Calculator
Calculate the number of pickets needed for your fence project with precise spacing
Calculate Fence Pickets
Picket Requirements
Common: 3.5", 5.5", 11.5"
Gap between pickets
Picket Calculation Results
Calculation Formula:
• All measurements converted to consistent units for calculation
• Result rounded up (⌈⌉) as you cannot buy partial pickets
Design Analysis
Example Calculations
Example 1: 11 ft Fence (Competitor Example)
Fence Length: 11 feet
Picket Width: 4 inches
Picket Spacing: 2.5 inches
Calculation: 11 ft × 12 in/ft ÷ (4 in + 2.5 in) = 132 in ÷ 6.5 in = 20.31
Result: ⌈20.31⌉ = 21 pickets
Example 2: 200 ft Fence (FAQ Example)
Fence Length: 200 feet
Picket Width: 5 inches
Picket Spacing: 1 inch
Calculation: 200 ft × 12 in/ft ÷ (5 in + 1 in) = 2400 in ÷ 6 in = 400
Result: 400 pickets
Additional Fence Calculations
Optional: Calculate Total Materials
For total picket length calculation
Distance between posts
Common Picket Sizes
3½" Pickets
Standard narrow pickets
Most economical option
5½" Pickets
Medium width pickets
Good privacy balance
11½" Pickets
Wide pickets (2x12)
Maximum privacy
Design Tips
Standard spacing: 2.5" gaps for traditional look
Privacy fence: Use wider pickets with minimal gaps
Decorative fence: Allow more spacing for airflow
Consider pointed tops for classic picket style
Buy 5-10% extra pickets for cuts and repairs
Understanding Fence Picket Calculations
What is a Picket Fence?
A picket fence is a type of fence made of pointed wooden pickets that are placed vertically and evenly spaced, joined by horizontal rails. While wood is traditional, modern picket fences are also made with vinyl, metal, and PVC materials.
Why Accurate Calculation Matters
- •Ensures you order the correct amount of materials
- •Prevents project delays from material shortages
- •Helps control project costs and budget
- •Ensures uniform appearance and spacing
Calculation Formula
Number of Pickets = ⌈Fence Length ÷ (Picket Width + Spacing)⌉
- ⌈⌉: Ceiling function (round up)
- Fence Length: Total linear distance
- Picket Width: Width of each picket
- Spacing: Gap between pickets
Unit Consistency
Important: All measurements must use the same units. Our calculator automatically converts units to ensure accuracy.
Professional Tips
- • Always round up the number of pickets - you cannot buy partial pickets
- • Consider buying 5-10% extra pickets for cuts, mistakes, and future repairs
- • Standard picket spacing ranges from 1" to 6" depending on privacy needs
- • Pointed picket tops are traditional but flat tops are easier to install
- • Check local building codes for fence height and setback requirements