Wood-style fence types
For wood privacy and wood picket selections, the calculator first determines the picket or slat count from the net fence run, board width, and gap. It then multiplies that count by the number of rails per section and by two fasteners per connection.
fasteners = pickets or slats × rails per section × 2
The rail count comes from the selected fence height and the calculator's one-rail-per-24-inches planning rule. This result helps you prepare a quantity for a material list; it does not choose the fastener type, size, coating, or connection detail.
Chain-link fence type
For the chain-link selection, the calculator does not use a picket count. Its fastener output uses four fasteners for each straight-run section plus four for each gate.
fasteners = (straight-run sections × 4) + (gates × 4)
The page labels this as a planning allowance. Confirm the actual hardware list from the specific fence system and gate design before ordering.
How the cost estimate treats fasteners
If you enter all local prices, the calculator treats one fastener pack as 100 fasteners when it includes the pack price in its cost estimate. The displayed fastener count is still the quantity to compare with the pack coverage you select.
Use the result with the rest of the material list
Calculate the straight run, review the posts, rails, infill, concrete, and fasteners together, then confirm your final design and product instructions. A single-run estimate is a planning aid and does not replace a structural or installation plan.