How Fence Material Is Calculated
Posts are spaced 6 or 8 feet apart (6 ft is standard for strength). Rails run horizontally between posts — 2 rails for fences under 6 ft, 3 rails for 6 ft and taller. Pickets fill the space between posts.
Materials by Fence Style
| Style | Picket Width | Gap | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Privacy | 5.5" | None | No gaps, maximum privacy |
| Picket | 3.5" | 1.75" | Classic look, allows airflow |
| Board-on-board | 5.5" | Overlapping | Looks good from both sides |
FAQ
How deep should fence posts be?
One-third of the total post length should be underground. For a 6-foot fence, use 8-foot posts with 2 feet buried. Set posts in concrete for stability — about one 50 lb bag per post.