Planning to install a vinyl fence? Whether you’re a DIYer or hiring a pro, figuring out the costs and materials can be overwhelming. That’s where our Vinyl Fence Calculator comes in. Paired with Google Earth, it makes measuring your property a breeze, helping you map out the perfect fence without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into how you can use these tools to get your project moving.
Why Use a Vinyl Fence Calculator?
This calculator helps you quickly estimate materials and costs for a Bufftech Vinyl Fence. Unsure how much material or what it will cost? The calculator provides an accurate solution for both.
- No Guesswork: Say goodbye to second-guessing how much fencing material to buy. The calculator gives you the precise amount.
- Save Time and Money: It saves you from ordering too much material (or worse, not enough).
- Stress-Free Planning: With cost estimates right at your fingertips, you’ll avoid surprise bills and can budget confidently.
How to Use Our Vinyl Fence Calculator
Step 1: Gather Your Info
First, grab some basics about your project. The calculator will ask for:
- Total Fence Length: How long will your fence run? Measure or estimate.
- Fence Height: Privacy fence or just a low boundary? You decide.
- Number of Gates: Planning for any gates? Be sure to include them since they need extra materials.
Step 2: Pick Your Vinyl Fence Materials
We all know not every fence is the same. You’ll get to choose from a variety of options:
- Panels: From solid privacy panels to decorative picket fences.
- Posts: Don’t forget those corner posts and gate posts—each has its own job to do.
Step 3: Check Out the Cost Breakdown
Once your info’s in, boom! You’ll get:
- Material Costs: How much those panels, posts, and gates are going to set you back.
- Labor Estimate: If you’re hiring a pro, we’ll give you a ballpark figure for installation.
- Total Cost: The grand total, so you can adjust as needed to stay within your budget.
Using Google Earth to Measure Your Property for Fencing
If you want to make sure your measurements are spot on, Google Earth is your new best friend. Here’s how to pair it with our vinyl fence calculator for super-accurate results.
Step 1: Open Google Earth and Zoom In
Fire up Google Earth and punch in your address. Zoom in on your property until you have a clear view of your yard.
Step 2: Start Measuring with the Ruler Tool
Use the handy ruler tool (you’ll find it in the toolbar) to trace along where you want your fence to go. Google Earth will give you the total distance, down to the foot (or meter).
Step 3: Feed Your Measurements Into the Calculator
Once you’ve got those measurements, plug them right into the vinyl fence calculator. It’ll handle the rest, ensuring you order exactly what you need for the job.
Why Google Earth is Perfect for Fence Projects
1. Accurate Measurements
Google Earth’s measurements are super precise, meaning no surprises when it comes time to install your fence.
2. Easy to Use
Not a tech genius? No problem. Google Earth is as simple as it gets. Anyone can figure it out in minutes.
3. Plan with a Visual Aid
It’s one thing to measure, but seeing the actual layout of your yard on the screen helps you plan better, especially for those tricky corners or slopes.
DIY Vinyl Fence Installation Guide
Once you’ve got your materials calculated and ready to go, including the metal fence gate, it’s time for installation! Here’s a quick guide to make the process as smooth as possible
Step 1: Clear and Mark the Area
Start by clearing away any obstacles where the fence will go—rocks, debris, overgrown bushes, you name it. Then, use stakes and string to mark where the fence will run.
Step 2: Dig Post Holes
Use a post-hole digger to create holes for your fence posts. Dig deep enough to keep your posts stable, especially if you’re dealing with strong winds or soft soil.
Step 3: Set Fence Posts and Attach Panels
Once the holes are ready, set the posts in place and pour in the concrete. After the posts are secure, it’s time to attach the panels.
Step 4: Install the Gates
Make sure your gates are swinging smoothly by double-checking their alignment before securing them in place.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
1. Measuring Incorrectly
Double-check your measurements before ordering anything. It’s a hassle to run short on materials halfway through the project.
2. Forgetting About Gates
Gates can make or break a fence. Be sure you’ve factored in the extra material they need when using the calculator.
3. Overlooking Local Rules
Some areas have restrictions on fence height or location. Check your local zoning laws before you start digging to avoid any fines or forced changes.
Final Thoughts
Building a fence doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With the help of our Vinyl Fence Calculator and Google Earth, you can plan out your fence project with confidence. You’ll get the right amount of materials, stay within your budget, and have a clear idea of how everything will come together. Happy fencing!
FAQs
How much does 200 linear feet of vinyl fence cost?
The cost of a 200 linear feet vinyl fence can vary depending on the material quality, style, and installation fees. On average, vinyl fences cost between $20 and $40 per linear foot. For 200 linear feet, the total cost could range from $4,000 to $8,000, including materials and installation.
How many posts do you need for a vinyl fence?
The number of posts you need for a vinyl fence depends on the panel width. Typically, vinyl fence panels are 6 or 8 feet wide. For a 6-foot wide panel, you’ll need one post every 6 feet. For a 200 linear foot fence, you would need around 34 posts (including corner posts).
What is the difference between a 6ft and 8ft wide vinyl fence?
The primary difference between a 6ft and 8ft wide vinyl fence is the spacing between posts. A 6ft wide fence provides more structural support due to closer post spacing, which is ideal for windy areas. An 8ft wide fence requires fewer posts, making it faster and slightly less expensive to install, but it may be less sturdy in certain conditions.
How do I calculate how much fence I need?
To calculate how much fence you need, measure the perimeter of the area you want to enclose. For example, if your yard is 200 linear feet around, you’ll need 200 feet of fencing material. Be sure to account for gates and any obstacles. You can also divide the total length by the width of the fence panels to determine the number of panels needed.
How much is 1 meter of fence?
To provide a rough estimate, here are some average fencing costs per metre for common materials, including both materials and labour/installation: PVC or vinyl fencing: $40 – $90 per metre. Treated pine paling fence: $75 – $120 per metre. Hardwood paling fence: $110 – $150 per metre.
How many fence boards per metre?
Allow 13.5 boards per metre when ordering 100mm boards, allow 10 boards per metre when ordering 125mm boards and allow 8 boards per metre when ordering 150mm boards.
How do I estimate a fence on Google Maps?
Continue clicking on each point along the path of your proposed fence. Google Maps will automatically calculate the total distance between the points.
