Fence Post Spacing Calculator

Results

  • Recommended Post Spacing: 0 feet
  • Total Line Posts Needed: 0
  • Post Embedment Depth: 0 feet
  • Total Posts Required: 0

Understanding Fence Post Spacing

Proper fence post spacing ensures structural integrity and longevity.

  • Fence Type Different styles require different spacing.
  • Material Each material has unique requirements.
  • Height Taller fences need closer spacing.
  • Terrain Slopes require adjustments to spacing.

Structural Design

  • Load Analysis Wind pressure: 15-40 psf. Dead load: 10-20 plf. Live load: 5-15 plf. Impact factor: 1.15-1.25. Safety factor: 2.0-2.5.
  • Panel Mechanics Bending moment: 200-600 ft·lbs. Shear force: 100-300 lbs. Deflection limit: L/180. Section modulus: 0.5-2.0 in³. Stress ratio: 0.6-0.8.
  • Post Design Embedment ratio: 1/3 height. Critical buckling: 0.7× depth. Moment capacity: 1000-3000 ft·lbs. Shear strength: 500-1500 lbs.

Material Properties

  • Wood Specifications Bending strength: 1500-3000 psi. Elastic modulus: 1.2-1.8×10⁶ psi. Shear parallel: 150-250 psi. Compression ⊥: 400-700 psi.
  • Metal Characteristics Yield strength: 35-50 ksi. Tensile strength: 58-80 ksi. Elongation: 15-30%. Coating thickness: 2-4 mils. Hardness: RC 15-30.
  • Composite Ratings Flexural modulus: 500-1000 ksi. Impact strength: 2-4 ft·lb/in. UV resistance: 10-20 years. Thermal expansion: 1.5-3.0×10⁻⁵/°F.

Installation Parameters

  • Spacing Standards Residential: 6-8 ft. Commercial: 8-10 ft. Security: 6-8 ft. Pool code: 4-6 ft. Corner posts: 0.7× standard.
  • Connection Details Fastener size: #8-#10. Edge distance: 3/4-1". Penetration: 1.5-2". Washer OD: 3-4× bolt. Torque: 15-25 ft·lbs.
  • Alignment Controls String line tension: 5-10 lbs. Level tolerance: ±1/8"/10ft. Plumb tolerance: ±0.5°. Spacing variance: ±1/2". Height diff: ±1/4".

Performance Criteria

  • Structural Stability Wind resistance: 90-130 mph. Snow load: 20-40 psf. Seismic category: A-D. Exposure class: B1-C2. Impact rating: Level 2-4.
  • Durability Factors Service life: 20-30 years. Maintenance cycle: 3-5 years. Corrosion rate: 0.1-0.3 mils/year. UV degradation: 10-15%/decade.
  • Safety Standards Child barrier: F2286-16. Pool safety: ASTM F1908. Security grade: 1-3. Fall protection: OSHA 1926.502. Privacy rating: 85-100%.

Design Considerations

Local Codes

Check building codes for requirements.

Soil Type

Adjust depth for soil conditions.

Climate

Consider frost line and weather.

Gates

Plan for gate post reinforcement.