How this calculator works
A vinyl fence run is divided into equal spans, with a post at each end and one more post than spans. Each span needs a panel, and when the fence is taller than one panel course it stacks another row of panels with its own tie beams. Post widths take up part of the run, so a 30 m run with 127 mm posts and 1.8 m clear panels has 16 spans and 17 posts, and the equal clear span is slightly under 1.8 m. Prices are per piece because vinyl is sold as kits and components, not by the linear foot.
Formula
Spans = ceil((run - post width) / (panel width + post width)); posts = spans + 1; clear span = (run - posts x post width) / spans; courses = ceil(fence height / panel course height); panels = spans x courses; tie beams = panels x beams per panel. Total = posts, panels and beams at their unit prices, plus labour x run, plus gates.
Worked example
A 30 m run with 127 mm posts and 1.8 m clear panels gives 16 spans, 17 posts and a 1.74 m clear span. At $25 per post, $60 per panel and $8 per tie beam, with two beams per panel, materials are $1,641. Labour at $20 per metre adds $600, so the total is $2,241, or $74.70 per metre.
Advertisement
Frequently asked questions
Why does the clear span come out under the panel width?
The posts take up run length. The total of all post widths is subtracted from the run and shared equally between the spans, so each clear space is slightly narrower than the maximum. Panels may need a small cut at the end.
Do the panel kits already include rails?
Many do, and some include posts as well. Set the tie beam price to zero or adjust the panel price if your kit is complete, so you are not paying twice.
How long does a vinyl fence last?
Manufacturers commonly warranty vinyl fence for decades against rot and insects, but colour fading, ground movement and impact damage still apply. The estimate here is a purchase price; installation quality and site conditions decide the real life.