Split Rail Fence Calculator

Estimate split-rail fence posts, rails, sections, and optional wire mesh from the full fence length and gate openings. The calculator assumes gates split the remaining straight fence into equal runs.

Your shopping list

22Posts
60Rails
20Fence sections
  • Gates1
  • Wire mesh (optional)Only if you want a mesh backing190 ft

Estimate assumes gates are evenly spaced. For uneven gate locations, calculate each straight run separately. Mesh is a line length only; choose roll height separately. Follow rail and post manufacturer instructions.

How to use the Split Rail Fence Calculator

  1. Enter the full end-to-end fence length, including every gate opening.
  2. Choose a section span that matches your rail length, overlap, and post design. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Choose 2, 3, or 4 rails per section.
  4. Enter the number and width of gates. The estimate splits the remaining straight fence evenly between gate openings.

The math behind it

Fence run = total length – (gate count x gate width)
Gate spans = gate count + 1
Sections = gate spans x round up((fence run / gate spans) / section span)
Posts = sections + gate spans
Rails = sections x rails per section
Wire mesh = fence run (optional linear length)

A worked example

What we typed in

  • Total fence length: 500 ft
  • Section length: 8 ft
  • Rails per section: 2 rails
  • Number of gates: 2
  • Width of one gate: 10 ft

What we got

  • Posts: 63
  • Rails: 120
  • Fence sections: 60
  • Gates: 2
  • Wire mesh (optional): 480 ft

For a related part of your project, use the Deck Footing Calculator.

Tips from the job site

  • Optional wire mesh can help close gaps, but choose mesh size and height for the animals; split rail alone may not contain small pets or livestock.
  • Choose rail count and spacing for the fence system and its intended use. This estimate does not check containment or structural loads.

Common questions

How far apart are split rail posts?

Spacing depends on rail length, overlap, post-slot design, and the fence system. Use the manufacturer’s instructions; the calculator’s section span is an estimate.

Do I need concrete?

It depends on the post system, soil, drainage, and gate or corner loads. Follow manufacturer instructions; this calculator does not size footings.

Does fence length include gate openings?

Yes. Enter the full line length, including gate openings; the calculator subtracts their combined width before estimating rails and mesh.

What if gates are not evenly spaced?

The estimate divides the remaining fence run evenly among the spans. For exact counts with uneven gate locations, calculate each straight run separately and add the results.

Does it calculate wire mesh rolls?

No. It estimates only the total linear length to cover. Choose mesh height and roll size separately.

All Fence Calculators

Last checked: (worked example and recalculation).