Formula and input notes
Pickets = ceil([(run in inches + gap) ÷ (picket width + gap)] × allowance factor)
| Input | Practical note |
|---|---|
| Clear gap | This is the Fence Picket Calculator layout value for clear gap; confirm whether the drawing specifies clear or on-center spacing. |
Worked fence picket example
Fence Picket Calculator example: The repeated pitch is 3.5 in + 2 in = 5.5 in. Across 127 ft, the layout count is 278; after 5% allowance, order 292 pickets.
Use the count as a baseline
Lay out each bay separately so end gaps are balanced, then round the total to whole boards and account for unusable defects.
Posts, gates, and field conditions
Posts, gate leaves, overlapping patterns, board-on-board coverage, end gaps, shrinkage, curves, and balanced bays change picket count.
Questions specific to this calculation
How do picket width and clear gap combine?
Enter total run, actual picket face width, and desired clear gap. The formula fits repeated picket-plus-gap pitches and then adds allowance.