Estimate posts, pickets, rails, and concrete needed for your fence project.
Post Spacing: 6-8 ft is standard for wood fences. Dig holes 1/3 to 1/2 the fence height (e.g., 2-3 ft deep for a 6 ft fence). Use concrete to set posts for longevity.
Material Choices: Pressure-treated pine is affordable ($15-25/post). Cedar lasts longer but costs more ($25-40/post). Vinyl is low-maintenance but expensive upfront ($30-50/section).
Permits: Many cities require permits for fences over 6 ft tall. Check local building codes before starting. Neighbors may share costs if the fence is on the property line.
Gates: Don't forget to budget for gates! A single walk gate needs 2 posts and special hardware ($100-300). Double drive gates cost $500-1500.
For 8-ft post spacing: 100 ÷ 8 = 12.5 sections → 13 sections + 1 end post = 14 posts. For 6-ft spacing: 100 ÷ 6 = 16.7 → 17 sections + 1 = 18 posts.
Bury posts 1/3 to 1/2 of the fence height. For a 6-ft fence, bury posts 2-3 ft deep. In cold climates (frost line), bury at least 36″ to prevent heaving.
Pressure-treated pine is affordable ($15-25/post) and rot-resistant. Cedar lasts 15-20 years, looks beautiful, but costs more ($25-40/post). Redwood is premium but expensive ($40-60/post).
DIY: $15-25 per foot (materials only). Professional installation: $25-50 per foot. A 100-ft wood privacy fence costs $2,500-5,000 installed.
Most cities require permits for fences over 6 ft tall. Setback rules vary (typically 2-6 ft from property line). Always check local codes and HOA rules before building.