Enter your Property Length, Property Width, Post Spacing, and any Gate Openings with their Opening Width to calculate your Total Fence Length — plus Posts Needed, Fence Sections, and Property Area so you know exactly what you're working with before the first post goes in the ground.
Total Fence Length
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Posts Needed
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Fence Sections
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Property Area
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The perimeter of a rectangle fence is the total length of fencing needed to enclose a rectangular area. It's calculated using the formula P = 2(L + W), where L is length and W is width.
To determine how much fence you need, measure the length and width of your property. The total fence length equals 2 × (length + width). Subtract any gate openings from this total.
A linear foot of fence refers to one foot of fence length, measured horizontally along the fence line. This is the standard unit for purchasing fencing materials and calculating costs.
Divide your total fence perimeter by the post spacing distance, then add one. For example, 300 feet of fence with 8-foot spacing needs approximately 38 posts (300 ÷ 8 + 1).
Standard fence post spacing is typically 6-8 feet for most residential fences. Use 6 feet for shorter fences or windy areas, and 8 feet for taller, more stable installations.
Yes, subtract the width of any planned gates or openings from your total perimeter. Gates are typically purchased separately and don't require the same linear footage of fencing material.
One acre (43,560 sq ft) in a perfect square would need approximately 835 feet of fence (209 feet per side). However, most properties aren't perfect squares, so measure your actual dimensions.