Set picket width and the gap you want and see how the count changes for a run.
How it works
Each picket takes its width plus the gap. Twelve inches divided by that gives pickets per foot, multiplied by length with your extra.
Before you order
- Space pickets with a scrap block so the gap never drifts over a long run.
- Measure a sample picket, since nominal widths are usually undersized.
- A small gap on wet lumber will widen as it dries.
Common questions
How many pickets for 100 feet?
At 5.5 inches wide and a 0.5 inch gap, about 200, plus extra for bad boards.
What gap should fence pickets have?
Anything from tight to several inches. The gap decides how much you can see through.