Dreaming of the perfect deck but not sure how much decking do I need? Avoid costly mistakes and the frustration of running out of materials mid-project with our Ultimate Deck Board Calculator Guide. This step-by-step guide takes the guesswork out of planning, helping you save time, money, and effort—whether you’re building a square, rectangular, or multi-level deck.
Understanding the Basics of Deck Board Calculation
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the basics of deck board calculation. Decking boards are the horizontal surface that makes up the walking area of your deck. They come in various lengths, widths, and materials, such as wood, composite, and PVC. The number of boards you need depends on the size of your deck, the length and width of the boards, and any additional features you plan to add, such as stairs or a picture frame border.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Deck Boards
Step 1: Measure Your Deck’s Area
The first step in calculating how many deck boards you need is to measure the area of your deck. Start by measuring the length and width of your deck and multiplying them to get the total area. If you’re working with a multi-level deck, measure each level separately and add them up for the total area.
For example, if you have a deck measuring 30 feet by 20 feet, you would multiply these dimensions to get a total area of 600 square feet (30 x 20 = 600).
Tip: If your deck includes stairs, don’t forget to include their area in your calculation.
Step 2: Choose the Right Board Length for a Seamless Look
Deck boards come in various lengths, such as 9.5 feet, 11.8 feet, or 20 feet. Selecting the right length can minimize cuts and create a cleaner look. Consider the following factors when choosing the right board length:
Deck Layout: Longer boards reduce seams, while shorter boards give you layout flexibility.
Board Orientation: Decide if you’ll lay boards straight, diagonal, or in a pattern. Diagonal layouts may require more boards due to the increased surface area they cover.
Picture Frame Border: If you plan to add a border around your deck, factor in the extra materials needed.
For example, if your deck is 24 feet long, two 11.8-foot boards may fit better than 3 9.5-foot board, minimizing seams and creating a cleaner look.
Step 3: Calculate Each Board’s Coverage Area
To find out how much area each board will cover, you need to know the board’s length and width. Multiply these dimensions to get the coverage area for each board.
Step 4: Determine Your Total Number of Boards
Now, divide your deck’s total area by the area each board covers to find out how many boards you’ll need.
Step 5: Add Extra for Safety and Waste
To account for cutting errors, waste, and any necessary off-cuts, add an extra 10-15% to your board count. This will give you a comfortable margin and ensure you have enough boards to complete your project.
For example, if you need 162 boards, adding 10% (multiply by 1.1) brings you to 178 boards. If you’re planning a diagonal layout, consider adding another 10-15% to your total for these patterns, as they tend to use more material.
Essential Materials for Deck Building
Decking boards are just the start of your deck-building project. Be sure to have these key materials on hand to ensure a successful build: Fasteners & Screws, Fascia Boards, Joist Tape, Decking Rails, Underdecking, Flashing.
How Much Decking Do I Need? Using This Easy Deck Calculator
If you’re not a fan of doing the math yourself, you can use Feelingwood deck calculator to get an instant estimate of how many boards you’ll need. Simply enter your deck’s length and width, and the calculator will do the rest.
Final Thoughts
Building a deck is a rewarding project that can add value and enjoyment to your home. By following our Ultimate Deck Board Calculator Guide, you can ensure that you have the right number of boards for your project, minimizing waste and saving money.
Remember to measure your deck accurately, choose the right board length for your layout, calculate the coverage area for each board, and add an extra 10-15% for safety and waste. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to build the deck of your dreams with confidence.
Happy building!
