Fence planning guide (posts, gates, and materials checklist)
A practical fence planning guide: panels vs pickets, post spacing, gates and corners, and the material items most estimates miss.
Last updated: Feb 2026
Decide panel vs picket before you estimate
Panel fences are often estimated by sections (6 ft/8 ft panels). Picket fences are estimated by picket count and rail length. The math and the shopping list are different, so pick the system first.
Gate posts need extra planning
Gate posts often need to be larger and deeper than line posts, especially for wide or heavy gates.
- Plan gate hardware and latch clearance early.
- Allow concrete cure time before hanging gates.
Planning before you dig
- Confirm property lines, setbacks, and any HOA or local permit rules.
- Call utility locate before digging.
- Plan gate locations early so post spacing stays consistent.
Panel vs picket (what changes in your estimate)
| Fence style | Primary quantity | Common extras to remember |
|---|---|---|
| Panel fence | Panels/sections | Brackets, rails (if needed), stepped/racked adjustments |
| Picket fence | Picket count + rail length | Fasteners, spacing jig, extra pickets for damage |
- Gates and corners often require extra posts and stronger bracing regardless of style.
- If the fence follows a slope, panel stepping/racking can change both layout and waste.
Posts are not just length ÷ spacing
Corners, ends, and gates require extra posts and often extra bracing. If you do not plan these explicitly, you will under-buy posts and concrete.
Post depth is driven by fence height and local frost line guidance. Depth affects post length and concrete needs.
Corner bracing and end posts
- Corners and ends often need heavier posts or additional bracing.
- Plan extra concrete for gate posts and corner assemblies.
- Brace before panels go up so alignment stays true.
Material choices (wood, vinyl, steel)
- Wood fences need stain/sealer planning and a maintenance schedule.
- Vinyl panels reduce maintenance but can limit custom sizing.
- Steel/aluminum changes hardware and post spacing; follow system guidance.
Gates: plan hardware and clearances
- Gate posts often need to be stronger or deeper (project dependent).
- Hardware (hinges, latches) is a separate line item.
- Slope and terrain can require adjustments in panel stepping or racking.
Gate sag prevention (practical planning)
- Wider/heavier gates sag more; plan stronger posts and hardware up front.
- Use appropriate hinges and consider a gate brace/cable (project dependent).
- Plan ground clearance and swing direction (driveway slope changes clearances).
- If the gate must align with panels, plan latch-side adjustments before setting posts.
Post spacing and layout (quick rules)
| Fence type | Common spacing approach | Reminder |
|---|---|---|
| Panels | Post-to-post matches panel length | Corners/ends/gates add posts |
| Pickets | Posts support rails (layout dependent) | Rails and picket spacing drive counts |
| Sloped sites | Step or rack panels (project dependent) | Slope changes section count and waste |
Post holes and concrete (planning notes)
- Post depth depends on fence height and local frost line guidance.
- Gate posts often need deeper/stronger footings (project dependent).
- Estimate concrete as its own line item and round up—running short mid-set is painful.
- Drainage and soil type can change footing needs; confirm local practice.
Material checklist (common misses)
- Posts, panels/pickets, rails, and fasteners
- Concrete for post holes (or alternative footing system)
- Gate hardware and bracing
- Caps, trim, and finishing/stain (if applicable)
- Extra boards for damage and future repairs
Ordering tips
- Buy extra pickets or panels for damage and future repairs.
- If matching color matters, buy from the same batch when possible.
- Plan delivery and storage so materials stay dry and flat.
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