About This Calculator
This calculator helps you determine the materials needed for installing fence panels. It calculates the number of panels, posts required (including corner/end posts), concrete for post holes, and optional gravel boards.
The calculator accounts for different post types (timber, concrete, metal) and adjusts concrete requirements accordingly.
How to Use
- Measure the total length of fence required
- Decide on fence height (0.9m to 1.8m typical)
- Choose panel width (standard is 1.8m/6ft)
- Select post type (timber, concrete, or metal)
- Decide if you need gravel boards
- Calculate quantities
Panel Heights
Low Fence
0.9m (3ft)
Front gardens, decorative boundaries
Medium Fence
1.2m (4ft)
Boundaries without planning permission
Standard Fence
1.5m (5ft)
Privacy fencing, rear gardens
Tall Fence
1.8m (6ft)
Maximum without planning permission
Post Recommendations
| Fence Height | Timber Post | Concrete Post |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1.2m | 75mm × 75mm | 90mm × 90mm |
| 1.2m - 1.5m | 100mm × 100mm | 100mm × 100mm |
| 1.5m - 1.8m | 100mm × 125mm | 125mm × 125mm |
Installation Tips
- Post depth should be at least 1/3 of the fence height, minimum 600mm
- Use 1 bag of postcrete per post for standard fences, 2 bags for tall/heavy posts
- Gravel boards protect panel bottoms from ground moisture
- Allow posts to set for 24 hours before attaching panels
- Use a string line to keep posts aligned
- Check for underground utilities before digging
Ready to Calculate?
Enter your fence dimensions and specifications to get accurate quantities.
Launch CalculatorNAIBC / IRC codes
References & Sources
Standards Cited
- ASTM F567 — Standard Practice for Installation of Chain-Link Fence
Industry standard for fence post installation depth, concrete requirements, and panel sizing - IRC R301 — International Residential Code — Design Criteria
General structural requirements applicable to residential fencing
Formulas Used
- Panels Required:
panels = ceil(fenceLength / panelWidth)
Source: ASTM F567 - Posts Required:
posts = panels + 1 (both ends free) or panels (one end against wall)
Source: ASTM F567 — Posts at each panel junction, plus end posts where fence is free-standing - Post Depth:
depth = max(fenceHeight x 0.33, 610mm)
Source: ASTM F567 — Minimum 610mm (24") depth; one-third of fence height for taller fences - Concrete per Post:
1 x 27kg bag per post (standard); 2 bags for fences >1.5m or concrete posts
Source: Industry standard practice - Total Fence Height:
totalHeight = fenceHeight + gravelBoardHeight
Source: ASTM F567
Key Assumptions
- Standard fence panel width is 1.83m (6 ft) — ASTM F567
- Post depth is one-third of fence height with a minimum of 610mm (24") — ASTM F567
- 1 bag (27 kg / 60 lb) of concrete per standard post hole; 2 bags for taller/heavier fences — Industry standard practice
- Gravel board height typically 150-300mm — Industry standard practice