Overview
This calculator is built for straight panel fencing. It subtracts gate and wicket openings from the total run, then uses the panel width to estimate how many fence sections fit and how many posts the layout needs. Add a waste allowance when your fence line needs trimming, matching to slopes or small installation adjustments. The result is a planning figure for ordering, not a substitute for site marking or checking manufacturer panel sizes.
Use cases
- Ordering materials for a garden boundaryEstimate how many panels and posts to buy before you place an order for a new straight boundary fence.
- Checking a layout with a gate and side accessSee how much line remains after subtracting a driveway gate and a pedestrian wicket from the total fence run.
- Comparing panel sizes before purchaseTest 2.0 m, 2.5 m or other panel widths to see which layout gives the fewest cuts and the cleanest post positions.
- Adding fitting reserve for sloping groundBuild in a waste percentage when the ground falls away, the ends need trimming or you expect small on-site adjustments.
How it works
- 1
Enter the full fence length in metres.
- 2
Add the width of each opening, such as a gate or wicket.
- 3
Set the panel width you plan to install.
- 4
Choose a waste allowance for cuts and fitting.
- 5
The calculator returns usable fence length, panel count and post count.
Examples
Driveway fence with a side wicket
Input: Total length: 31.5 m; gate opening: 4.0 m; wicket opening: 1.0 m; panel width: 2.5 m; waste: 6%.
Output: Usable fence length is reduced by the openings, then the calculator estimates the panel count and the posts needed along the run.
Useful for a front boundary with both vehicle and pedestrian access.
Long straight rear fence
Input: Total length: 18 m; gate opening: 0 m; wicket opening: 0 m; panel width: 2.0 m; waste: 3%.
Output: The result shows the full fillable length and the number of standard panels needed for a simple straight section.
A clean example when there are no breaks in the fence line.
Fence with a wide entrance
Input: Total length: 27.8 m; gate opening: 3.6 m; wicket opening: 0.9 m; panel width: 2.5 m; waste: 8%.
Output: The calculator gives the remaining panel length after openings and adds a reserve for cuts and fitting.
Helpful when the entrance widths must be counted precisely before ordering.
FAQ
Does the calculator count end posts and corner posts separately?
It estimates the posts required along the panel layout, but special posts for corners, ends, gate sides or changes in direction may need to be added separately.
Should opening widths be included in the total fence length?
Yes. Enter the full run from end to end, then list the widths of the gate and wicket so the openings can be removed from the panel section.
Why can the panel count differ from the simple remaining length divided by panel width?
The tool rounds the layout to a practical panel arrangement, so the result may shift when the remaining length does not match the exact module width.
What if my fence uses mixed panel widths?
Use the width of the main repeating section first. If your layout combines different modules, check each span separately rather than relying on one total.
Can I use this for a fence with slopes or uneven ground?
Yes, but treat the output as a starting estimate. Slopes often require trimming or stepped placement, which can change the final material list.