How to Calculate Linear Feet of a Fence
Getting your fence measurements right isn’t just about having nice round numbers. As a fence contractor who’s measured hundreds of properties, I can tell you that accurate linear feet calculations directly impact your budget and material needs.
The Basics of Measuring In Linear Feet
Linear feet simply means the straight-line measurement of your fence length. Think of it as walking along your proposed fence line with a measuring tape. Pretty straightforward, right? Well, not always.
Tools You’ll Need
A good measuring tape or measuring wheel is your best friend here. We use measuring wheels on most of our jobs, but you can’t argue with the accuracy of a good old standard 100-foot tape measure.
You might also want:
- Stakes for marking corners
- A notepad for recording measurements
- A calculator
- A partner (especially if you’re using a classic tape measure, trust me)
Step-by-Step Measurement Process
- Start at a fixed point, like your house corner. I usually place a stake here to mark the beginning.
- Walk your property line, marking each corner with a stake. This gives you a visual outline of your fence path.
- Measure each straight section separately. Write down these numbers – don’t trust your memory.
For rectangular yards, you’ll measure the length and width, then add them together. A 50-foot by 75-foot rectangular yard needs 250 linear feet of fencing (50 + 75 + 50 + 75).
Dealing with Irregular Shapes
If your yard isn’t symmetrical, such as L-shaped properties, it will need extra attention. Break the area into rectangles and measure each section separately.
When you’ve got curves or odd angles, measure in smaller, straight segments. It takes longer but gives you much more accurate results.
Special Considerations
Gates need their own calculations. Standard walk-through gates are usually 3 to 4 feet wide, while driveway gates might be 10 to 12 feet.
Remember to account for post spacing. Most fence styles need posts every 6 to 8 feet.
Another important step before installing a fence is to measure around trees or rocks in the fence line. This adds extra linear feet to your total.
Digital Tools and Modern Methods
Google Maps can give you a rough estimate, but I wouldn’t rely on it for final measurements. Web mapping services work better for initial planning than precise calculations.
We have used specialized fence calculation apps on occasion, but nothing beats physical measurements for accuracy.
Common Measurement Mistakes
The biggest mistake I regularly see is not accounting for slope. A fence running up a hill needs more material than one on flat ground.
People often forget to add extra length for gates and corners as well. Each corner post takes up space, and you need proper gate posts.
Practical Tips from Experience
Always add about 10% to your total measurement for waste and adjustments. Better to have a bit extra than come up short.
Double-check your measurements. Walking the line twice might seem excessive, but it’s cheaper than ordering more materials later.
Take notes about specific challenges along your fence line – things like tree roots or utility boxes that might affect installation.
Material Ordering Guidelines
Different fence styles need different calculations:
- Chain link comes in specific roll lengths
- Wood panels are typically 6 or 8 feet wide
- Precast concrete sections have standardized lengths
When ordering materials, round up to the next available size. If you need 95 feet of fencing and panels come in 6-foot sections, you’ll need 16 panels (96 feet).
Professional Insights
After years in the business, I’ve learned that proper measurement is about more than just numbers. You’re really mapping out a project that needs to look good and function well for decades.
Take your time with measurements. A rushed job usually means missed details that’ll cause headaches later.
And remember those property lines – they’re important. If you’re unsure about boundaries, get a survey. The cost of a survey beats the expense of moving a misplaced fence.
Final Measurement Tips
Document everything. Take photos of your measurement process and keep your notes.
Consider seasonal changes – Will landscaping equipment need extra clearance?
Check local building codes – some areas require specific setbacks from property lines.
Remember, accurate measurements lead to accurate quotes, proper material ordering, and ultimately, a successful fence installation. Take your time, double-check your work, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from an experienced fence company if you need it.
