Measure the right distance.
A clear gate opening, a post-center span and a board’s nominal size are different measurements. Choosing the right one prevents quiet quantity errors.
1. Record each straight run
Use a sketch with numbered corners and endpoints. The planner expects run lengths between endpoint post centers, in decimal feet. Where a run ends at a wall or another structure, establish the actual post location first. A rough sketch does not establish the legal property line.
2. Decide which gate dimension you have
If you measure the unobstructed space between the two gate-post faces, select Clear opening. The tool adds half the actual width of each gate post to obtain the support-center span. If your product drawing already gives the center-to-center support dimension, select Center span.
Gate start is measured from the run’s first post center to the first gate-post center. A 4 ft clear opening does not include hinges, latch clearances or other product-specific deductions; use the gate system’s installation dimensions.
3. Use actual dimensions
Measure board width and square-post width or read the actual dimensions on the specification. A nominal product name is not enough. Different picket products can have different finished dimensions and thicknesses. Enter the board’s actual width, selected stock height, planned gap or specified overlap.
4. Keep fill depth separate
Concrete fill is the height occupied by concrete, not automatically the full hole depth. In this model, the post rests on any gravel base. A hypothetical 36 in excavation with 6 in gravel and concrete filled to grade uses 30 in of concrete fill. Local requirements and the actual installation detail take precedence.
5. Handle the limits of this drawing
The planner’s runs are horizontal plan distances, not slope-adjusted rail or board lengths. If the ground slopes, step/rack details and material lengths need a separate field layout. The custom view is orthogonal and rejects crossing connected runs. It does not survey your property or infer directions from a map.