🛠️ DIY Calculator

Decking Calculator

Building a deck requires precise material counts. Too few boards and you are stuck at the store. Too many and you waste money. Our calculator accounts for board spacing, joist layout, and waste.

How to Use This Tool

  1. Enter deck dimensions.
  2. Enter board width and length.
  3. Enter joist spacing (16 inches is standard).
  4. Set waste factor (10% is typical).
  5. Click Calculate.

The Formula

Boards = Deck Length / Board Width. Joists = Deck Width / Spacing + 1. Screws = ~4 per sqft of decking.

Why It Matters

You are building a 12x16ft composite deck. You need approximately 2,304 board feet of decking plus 300 linear feet of joists. With 10% waste factor, order 2,535 board feet. Cost at $8/board foot: ~$20,280.
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