Overview
The Dirt Face fence designer tool lets you draw fence lines on a satellite map or uploaded site plan, place gates, and generate material quantities for an estimate. It is the visual layout step in Dirt Face fence estimating software, not a general CAD program.
When to use the designer
| Use the designer | Use a fence template only |
|---|---|
| Irregular layouts and multiple corners | Straight runs with standard spacing |
| On-site measurement with map or GPS | Repeatable catalog fence types |
| Customer wants a layout picture | Quick ballpark from a known system |
Step 1: Open the designer from an estimate
Start from the estimate for the job site so the takeoff lands on the right customer and proposal. Confirm the job site address so the map centers correctly, or upload a site plan when satellite view is not enough.
Step 2: Draw fence runs and gates
Select the fence system for each run, place start and end points, add corners and ends, and insert gates where the design needs them. Dirt Face is built for real fence geometry so lengths and post counts stay tied to what you drew.
Step 3: Review the material takeoff
Open the generated material list and check posts, panels or fabric, gates, and related items. Add extras the map cannot know, such as removal, rock drilling, or specialty hardware.
Step 4: Return to pricing and the proposal
Save the design and continue in the estimate. Review totals, then send the proposal. The designer feeds the quote; it is not a separate drawing file you have to retype into a spreadsheet.
FAQ
Is this the same as shop drawings?
No. The fence designer is for bird's-eye site layout and takeoff quantities. Shop drawings cover elevations, fabrication detail, and install specs. See Shop Drawings Workflow.
Can I use it on a tablet in the field?
Yes. Many estimators draw runs on a tablet at the property, then finish pricing in the office.