Privacy Fence Calculator
Calculate posts, panels, pickets, rails, and concrete needed for your privacy fence project
Calculate Privacy Fence Materials
Fence Dimensions
Typically 6-8 feet
Rails and Pickets
2-3 rails typical for privacy fences
Common: 5.5", 3.5", 6"
0 = no gaps (privacy fence)
Post Specifications
Common: 4", 6" for privacy fences
For square posts
Cost Estimation (Optional)
Typical: $10-25 per linear foot
Typical: $5-15 per linear foot
Privacy Fence Material Results
Calculation Formulas (Competitor Validated):
Project Analysis
Example Calculation
100 ft Privacy Fence with 8 ft Spacing (Competitor Example)
Fence Length: 100 feet
Post Spacing: 8 feet
Fence Height: 6 feet
Rails per Section: 2 rails
Calculation Results
Posts: (100 ÷ 8) + 1 = 13.5 → 14 posts
Sections: 14 - 1 = 13 panels
Post length: 6 × 1.5 = 9 feet (2 ft buried, 7 ft above ground)
Rails: 13 × 2 = 26 rails
This matches the competitor's calculation exactly!
Privacy Fence Installation Guide
Professional installation steps for a durable privacy fence:
Planning & Preparation
- •Check local building codes and obtain permits if required
- •Call 811 to mark utility lines before digging
- •Survey property lines to ensure fence placement
- •Mark fence line with stakes and string
Installation Process
- •Dig post holes to 1/3 of total post length
- •Set corner and end posts first with concrete
- •Install line posts, ensuring proper spacing
- •Attach rails horizontally between posts
- •Install pickets vertically to rails
Critical Measurements
- • Post holes: 3× post width diameter, 1/3 post length deep
- • Concrete: Allow 24-48 hours to cure before attaching rails
- • Post spacing: Maximum 8 feet for privacy fences
- • Drainage: Slope ground away from fence line
Privacy Fence Materials & Types
Choose the right materials for your privacy fence project:
Wood Privacy Fences
- •Cedar: Natural rot resistance, $15-25/linear ft
- •Pressure-treated Pine: Economical, $10-18/linear ft
- •Redwood: Premium option, $20-35/linear ft
- •Maintenance: Stain/seal every 2-3 years
Vinyl Privacy Fences
- •PVC Vinyl: Low maintenance, $20-40/linear ft
- •Colors: White, tan, gray, wood-grain textures
- •Durability: 20-30 year lifespan
- •Maintenance: Occasional washing only
Common Fence Specs
Cost Guidelines
Understanding Privacy Fence Calculations
How the Calculator Works
Our privacy fence calculator uses industry-standard formulas validated against competitor calculations. The key principles include proper post spacing, adequate burial depth, and accurate material counts to prevent project delays and cost overruns.
Key Calculation Steps
- •Posts: (Length ÷ Spacing) + 1
- •Sections: Posts - 1
- •Post Length: Fence Height × 1.5
- •Concrete: Hole Volume × Number of Posts
Critical Design Rules
Building Code Considerations
Professional vs DIY Installation
DIY Considerations:
- • Requires post-hole digger or auger rental
- • Heavy physical work for post setting
- • Need level and proper alignment tools
- • 2-3 day project for 100 linear feet
Professional Benefits:
- • Professional equipment and experience
- • Warranty on installation quality
- • Proper building code compliance
- • Faster completion (1-2 days typical)