Fence measurement, gates & material handoff
Place fixed corners and gates first, then divide the remaining runs into bays and a material schedule.
A gate splits a run into two solid spans. Moving it can change bay counts and post positions even when total fence length is unchanged.
Record horizontal runs
Use the accepted boundary layout and fixed post locations. Give each straight section a name, length and direction. A drawing origin is not a property survey.
Locate gate posts precisely
Use the gate system’s post-center dimensions, including hardware clearance. Enter the distance from the run start to the first gate post and then the distance to the second.
Split at corners and grade changes
Connected sections share their fixed terminal. Each constant-grade section gets its own rise; the slope length can exceed horizontal length. A stepped fence needs a separate cutting plan.
Match the system to the takeoff
Wood/panel, chain-link and wire use different components. Keep line and terminal posts separate; get foundations, braces, gates, fittings, local approvals and utility checks from the accepted design and supplier.
See the measurement become an order
Example: a 48 ft horizontal run with a 4 ft gate starting 16 ft from the first post. The chosen maximum spacing is 8 ft.
This example gives 8 posts on the plan.
- North boundary: Δx = 48 × cos(0°); Δy = length × sin(direction).