Calculate materials for a privacy fence with overlapping pickets.
Fence Dimensions
ft
ft
in
in
ft
Material Estimate
Enter dimensions to estimate materials
About this calculator
Overview
A board-on-board fence (also called a shadowbox fence) provides 100% privacy because the pickets overlap. This design also allows air to flow through the fence, making it more stable in high winds than a solid fence.
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Pro Tips
Use pressure-treated wood or cedar for longevity against rot and insects.
Overlap pickets by at least 1 inch on each side to ensure privacy even after wood shrinkage.
Set your posts in concrete at least 2 feet deep (or below the frost line).
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Fun Facts
"Board-on-board fences are sometimes called 'good neighbor' fences because they look identical from both sides."
"The overlap accounts for the natural shrinkage of wood as it dries, ensuring no gaps appear over time."
"Standard picket widths are 3.5 inches (1x4) or 5.5 inches (1x6)."
Formula: Total Pickets = (Length × 12) / (Picket Width - Overlap)
Posts = (Length / Post Spacing) + 1
