How Far Apart Should I Space My Picket Fence Boards?
If you’re building your own picket fence using individual boards, one of the most important things to get right is the spacing between each pale. It’s a detail many people overlook, but it makes a huge difference to the look, strength, and cost of your fence.
At Clarke Fencing, we supply a wide range of pressure-treated picket boards, rails, and fence posts for custom-built fencing. Whether you’re aiming for a soft cottage feel or a neat, traditional boundary, following the correct spacing method ensures everything lines up cleanly and performs well over time.
This guide explains why spacing matters, how many pickets you’ll need, and why Clarke’s 70mm standard is the ideal balance between style, security, and practicality.
Why Spacing Matters in Picket Fencing
A picket fence is traditionally semi-open. The gaps between the boards provide visibility and allow wind to pass through, reducing pressure on posts. However, different gap sizes offer different outcomes:
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Too close: creates a semi-solid barrier, reducing airflow and visibility
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Too wide: weakens containment for pets and may look sparse
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Balanced spacing: gives symmetry, structure, and the classic picket style
Proper spacing also impacts your material count—larger gaps mean fewer boards, smaller gaps increase your picket total and cost.
Clarke’s 70mm Standard Spacing Rule
At Clarke Fencing, we recommend a consistent spacing pattern where:
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Each picket is 70mm wide
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Each gap between pickets is also 70mm
This means every 140mm section (1 board + 1 gap) covers a predictable amount of fence run, making planning and installation easy.
How Many Picket Boards Do I Need?
To work it out:
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1 picket + 1 gap = 140mm coverage
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1,000mm ÷ 140mm = ~7.14 pickets per metre
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Round up to 7 pickets per metre
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Multiply the number of metres by 7 to get your total
Example:
A 10m fence run × 7 pickets = 70 pickets required
We always recommend ordering a few extra for cutting, corners, and spares.
Explore our full range of picket boards in both 0.9m and 1.2m heights, including pointed and round top options in sawn brown or planed green finishes.
Tools for Accurate Spacing
To maintain a consistent 70mm gap between boards, use a spacer block. You can cut a small offcut of timber to exactly 70mm wide and slide it between each picket during fixing. This speeds up installation and guarantees a uniform finish along the entire fence line.
Be sure to check vertical alignment with a spirit level every few boards—especially on uneven ground.
Can I Use a Different Spacing?
Technically, yes—but here’s what to consider:
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Smaller gaps (50mm): Ideal for pet enclosures but will increase your picket count and cost by around 25%
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Wider gaps (90–100mm): Offer more visibility and lower cost but reduce structure and containment
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Inconsistent gaps: Make the fence look messy, misaligned, and poorly finished
If you’re looking for full privacy or security, you might prefer solid closeboard fencing instead.
Does Spacing Affect Appearance?
Absolutely. A consistent 70mm spacing gives a balanced “hit one, miss one” effect that looks attractive and symmetrical. It works well with all picket styles, especially when viewed from the street or across the garden.
If you’re painting your fence in white, pastel, or grey tones, this spacing helps light pass through and creates an inviting shadow play on sunny days.
Need Help Planning?
Use our full How to Build a Picket Fence guide for a complete step-by-step overview of planning, measuring, and installing your picket fence.
And if you’re unsure whether sawn brown or planed green pickets are better for your project, check out:
👉 Sawn Brown vs Planed Green Pickets – Which Finish Is Right for You?
Summary
Spacing your picket boards correctly is key to building a fence that looks clean, functions properly, and lasts for years. Clarke Fencing’s recommended 70mm gap provides that classic “hit and miss” look, with even airflow and balanced visibility—perfect for both front gardens and practical enclosures.
If you’re still in the planning phase, our team is happy to help you work out quantities, layout, or gate positioning. We stock everything you need to build a custom picket fence from scratch—including individual pales, timber rails, posts, Postcrete, and picket gates.
