How far apart should fence posts be?

For wood and vinyl fences, posts should be spaced 6-8 feet apart. Chain link and aluminum fences use 8-10 foot spacing. Our calculator uses industry-standard spacing: 8 feet for wood/vinyl and 10 feet for chain link/aluminum.

How deep should fence posts be set?

A general rule is to bury 1/3 of the total post length. For a 6-foot fence, use 8-foot posts set 2 feet deep. For a 4-foot fence, posts should be at least 18-24 inches deep. Always dig below the frost line in cold climates.

What type of fence is most cost-effective?

Chain link is the most affordable at around $10/linear foot installed. Wood privacy fencing costs about $15/ft but offers more privacy. Vinyl ($25/ft) and aluminum ($30/ft) cost more upfront but require less maintenance over time.

Do I need a permit to build a fence?

Most municipalities require a permit for fences over 4 feet tall. Check with your local building department before starting. You'll also need to call 811 to locate underground utilities and verify your property lines with a survey.

How many bags of concrete do I need per fence post?

Plan for 2 bags of 60-pound concrete mix per post for a standard 6-foot fence. For 8-foot fences or corner/gate posts, use 3 bags. The concrete should fill a hole that's 3 times the post width and 1/3 the total post length deep.

How long does a fence last?

Wood fences last 15-20 years with proper maintenance (staining every 2-3 years). Vinyl fences can last 20-30 years with minimal upkeep. Chain link lasts 15-25 years. Aluminum fences can last 30+ years as they don't rust or rot.