Offline
No internet, no account required.
IRC R317
Validated against the standard.
PDF export
Pro-only. Generate professional reports.
$2.99 Pro
Lifetime unlock. No subscriptions.
How it works
Enter your values
Type in your inputs — the app fills code tables and constants for you, so there's nothing to look up.
Get a code-checked result
Instant answer with a clear PASS / FAIL and the exact IRC R317 reference behind every number.
Save & export
Keep a history of calculations and export a clean PDF report to share or attach to a permit (Pro).
What this calculator does
This app turns a fence length into a clean material list — posts, rails, and pickets — so you order the right amount with sensible waste, whether it's wood privacy, picket, or ranch rail.
How it works
- Posts = fence length ÷ post spacing + 1 (typical spacing is 6 or 8 ft on center).
- Rails = sections × rails per section (2 for short fences, 3 for tall privacy).
- Pickets = fence length ÷ (picket width + gap), rounded up.
Worked example
A 96-ft fence at 8-ft spacing needs 96 ÷ 8 + 1 = 13 posts and 12 sections. With 3 rails each that's 36 rails; 5.5-inch pickets butted tight need about 210 pickets (96 ft = 1,152 in ÷ 5.5).
Related calculators
Set the posts with the concrete calculator and figure lumber with the lumber calculator.
Fence FAQ
How far apart should posts be?
Most wood fences use 6 or 8 ft on-center post spacing. Closer spacing is stiffer; the app counts posts and sections for whatever spacing you choose.
How many rails per section?
Two rails are common for fences up to about 4 ft, and three for taller privacy fences. The app multiplies by the number of sections.
Does it account for picket gaps?
Yes. Enter the picket width and the spacing gap and it computes the picket count for the run.
Does it work offline?
Yes, it runs 100% offline with no account. Free with rewarded ads; a one-time $2.99 Pro unlock adds PDF export and saved history.
Get Fence Calculator on your phone
Free with rewarded ads · $2.99 lifetime Pro · iOS & Android. Works 100% offline on the job site.