Why use this calculator
Accurate fencing material estimates prevent costly return trips to the supplier and ensure you purchase the right quantities. Fencing is one of the most significant infrastructure investments on a farm, so proper planning reduces waste and controls costs across large-scale projects.
How to use it
Enter the total fence perimeter in metres, select the fence type, specify the number of wires or rails, and set the post spacing. The calculator determines total posts, wire length (with 5% extra for tensioning), strainer post requirements, and estimated materials cost.
The formula
Posts = Perimeter / Post Spacing + 1. Wire Length = Perimeter x Number of Wires x 1.05 (5% extra). Wire Rolls = Wire Length / 200m per roll. Strainer Posts = Perimeter / 200m.
Worked examples
1,000m post-and-wire fence, 4 wires, 3m post spacing
334 posts, 4,200m wire (21 rolls), 5 strainer posts, approximately $6,753 materials
500m electric fence, 3 wires, 4m post spacing
126 posts, 1,575m wire (8 rolls), 3 strainer posts, approximately $1,783 materials
When people use it
- Planning materials orders for new paddock subdivision
- Budgeting fencing costs for property development
- Comparing material costs between different fence types
- Estimating contractor fencing quotes
Tips
- Add 10% extra posts to account for breakage and difficult terrain
- Use treated timber posts or steel posts for longevity in wet areas
- Plan corner and gate post locations before calculating intermediate post quantities
- Consider access tracks when planning fence lines for ongoing maintenance
Questions people ask
- What is a strainer post?
- Strainer posts (also called end posts or anchor posts) are heavy-duty posts installed at corners, ends, gateways, and every 200m along straight runs. They provide the anchor points for wire tensioning and must be stronger than intermediate line posts.
- How does fence type affect cost?
- Electric fencing is typically the cheapest option per metre but requires ongoing power costs. Post-and-wire is the most common and moderately priced. Post-and-rail is the most expensive but provides the strongest physical barrier and is often used for horses and high-value stock.
- What post spacing should I use?
- Standard post spacing: post-and-wire 2.5-3m, electric 4-8m (with droppers between), post-and-rail 2.4-3m (matching rail lengths). Closer spacing provides a stronger fence but increases cost.