Fence Post Calculator: How Many Fence Posts Do I Need?
Fence installation costs fall between $1,857 and $4,764.
How many fence posts you need depends on the type and spacing.
A local fence installer can determine how many fence posts you need.
Including a fence around your yard can keep your pets and kids safe and prevent unwanted guests (animals and people) from entering. It can also help create a private place for you to relax. Fence installation costs between $1,857 and $4,764, and getting accurate measurements can keep you on budget. If you’re wondering, “How many fence posts do I need?” we can help. Calculating the number of fence posts needed for your fencing project is relatively simple and can ensure you have enough materials to complete the project.
How Many Fence Posts Do I Need for My Fencing Project?
When it’s time to replace a fence, use this guide to estimate how many fence posts you’ll need based on the linear feet and type of fence.
| Fence Type | Spacing | Number of Posts per 100 Linear Feet | Number of Posts per 200 Linear Feet | Number of Posts per 300 Linear Feet | Number of Posts per 400 Linear Feet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wooden | 5–8 feet | 13–20 | 25–40 | 38–60 | 50–80 |
| Metal | 5–8 feet | 13–20 | 25–40 | 38–60 | 50–80 |
| Vinyl | 6–8 feet | 13–17 | 25–34 | 38–50 | 50–67 |
| Chain-link | 4–10 feet | 10–25 | 20–50 | 30–75 | 40–100 |
| Wire | 8–12 feet | 9–13 | 17–25 | 25–38 | 34–50 |
Calculating How Many Fence Posts You Need
Before you calculate how many fence posts you need, you’ll need to know how many linear feet of fencing you need, the type of fencing, and how far apart the fence posts should be. You can use the formula below as a place to start:
Number of fence posts = Linear feet / post spacing
This formula will get you a good estimate for the number of fence posts you need, but consulting a local fence installer will help you account for terrain changes, areas that need additional reinforcement, and gate considerations.
How to Measure for the Amount of Fencing
Measuring the amount of fencing you’ll need starts with measuring the perimeter of the area you want to enclose by using this formula:
Perimeter = (Side 1 + side 2 + side 3 + side 4) - width of gate openings
If the fence will be an irregular shape—to avoid trees or account for terrain changes, for example—you can still measure it yourself by measuring all of the stretches and then adding them together.
Once you have this measurement, you’ll know how many linear feet of fencing you need and can apply the formula for the number of fence posts.
Who to Hire for Fencing
Fencing can be a DIY project if you have experience, but it requires accurate measurements and knowledge of how to install posts and fencing material properly. In many cases, hiring a fencing installation professional is the best way to go. They can offer suggestions for the best material and fence post spacing and provide proper reinforcement to ensure the fence is sturdy.
No, fence posts aren’t always set in concrete. If you don’t want to use concrete footings for your posts, expanding foam is a popular alternative. Expanding foam and concrete each have certain pros and cons. For instance, foam is easier to install and more sustainable, but concrete is sturdier and less expensive.
The distance between fence posts depends on the type of fence you’re installing. Wood and metal fence posts should be between 5 feet and 8 feet apart. Chain-link fence posts can be closer together at 4 feet apart, or the spacing can be up to 10 feet apart. Vinyl fence posts can be between 6 feet and 8 feet apart, and wire fence posts can be up to 12 feet apart.
The cost to install a fence averages between $1,800 and $4,500, ranging from as low as $450 to as much as $43,000 for a five-acre yard. Cost factors include the size of the fence, type of fence material, height, site prep, and additional features like gates. Keep in mind that custom fabrication of fences and gates can also increase the cost.
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