Post Embedment Depth Calculator

Plan sturdy posts for trellises, gates, and fences. Choose units, soil type, and exposure level. Review results, then export a clean report anytime easily.

Calculator

Switching units updates visible fields.
Loose soils typically need deeper embedment.
More wind = deeper and wider footings.
Solid panels catch more wind than open trellis.
Gate and corner posts take higher loads.
Use 1.10–1.25 for extra resilience.
Measured from finished soil grade.
Use outside diameter for round posts.
Enter 0 if frost is not a concern.
Common minimum is 24 inches for fences.
Helps drainage and reduces heave.
Measured from finished soil grade.
Use outside diameter for round posts.
Enter 0 if frost is not a concern.
Common minimum is 60 cm for fences.
Helps drainage and reduces heave.
Concrete is common for gates and wind loads.
Leave 0 to fill full embedment above gravel.
Leave 0 to fill full embedment above gravel.

Example data table

Scenario Above-ground Post diameter Soil Exposure Style Role Embedment Hole depth Hole diameter
Garden fence end post 4.0 ft 4.0 in Loam Normal Solid End / corner ≈ 26 in ≈ 30 in ≈ 13 in
Light trellis line post 1.2 m 8 cm Gravelly Sheltered Open Line post ≈ 60 cm ≈ 70 cm ≈ 24 cm
Values are illustrative; your site inputs drive the final result.

Formula used

This calculator estimates embedment depth using a practical planning rule, then adjusts it with site-condition multipliers:

Base embedment
base = max( 0.35 × above_ground_height, minimum_embedment, frost_depth )
Adjusted embedment
embedment = base × soil_factor × exposure_factor × fence_factor × role_factor × safety_factor

How to use this calculator

  1. Select your unit system and enter above-ground height and post diameter.
  2. Choose soil type, wind exposure, and your fence/trellis style.
  3. Set the post role (line, corner, or gate) and an optional safety factor.
  4. Add frost depth and a minimum embedment if you want a floor value.
  5. Optional: enable concrete to estimate concrete volume and bag counts.
  6. Press Calculate. Your results appear above the form, with export buttons.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.