Choose the unit that matches your measurement
The total-length and height fields offer inches, feet, yards, centimeters, and meters. Choose the matching unit before entering the number. The calculator converts the selected total length and height to feet before it works out the run, posts, rails, and estimated post length.
This lets you start with a tape measurement in centimeters or meters without first converting it by hand. The displayed formula notes use feet because the calculation runs on that shared basis.
Keep the fixed-unit fields in their labeled units
- Gate width: enter feet. Gate openings are subtracted from the converted total run.
- Post spacing: enter feet. The result uses it to divide the straight run into sections.
- Picket width and gap: enter inches. They determine the picket or slat count for non-chain-link fence types.
- Concrete volume and bag yield: enter cubic feet per post and cubic feet per bag, using the hole plan and product packaging you have chosen.
Read the result as one measurement system
After the length and height are converted, the calculator reports the run, sections, post length, and material quantities using the same internal feet-based plan. The fence fabric result for chain link is shown as a linear-foot length after gate openings. For pickets or slats, the count is based on the net run and the entered inch dimensions.
A quick input check before calculating
Confirm that the selected unit belongs to the number you typed, then check that gate width and post spacing are both feet. Do not enter a metric gate width into the feet-only gate field. If the result is for more than one direction or a full yard layout, calculate each continuous run separately.