Deck Builders
Deck Board Calculator
Calculate how many deck boards you need based on deck size, board width, and spacing.
Boards run lengthwise (16′) across the 12′ deck width. 26 rows of boards with 5.5″ width and 0.25″ gaps, plus 10% waste = 29 boards total.
Common Questions
How do I figure out how many deck boards I need?
Divide your deck width in inches by the board width plus the gap. For a standard 5/4x6 board with a 1/4 inch gap, that is 5.75 inches per board. Round up to the next whole number, then multiply by your deck length to get total linear feet. Add 10 percent for waste.
How much extra should I buy for deck board waste?
Buy 10 percent extra for a straight deck and 15 percent extra if you are running boards at an angle. A few extra boards also help with future repairs.
What gap should I leave between deck boards?
Leave 1/4 inch between boards. This lets water drain and gives the wood room to expand in heat and humidity. A 16d nail makes a good spacer.
How wide is a 5/4x6 deck board?
A 5/4x6 deck board is 5.5 inches wide (actual measurement). Add your gap to get the spacing between board centers.
Want a website that wins more jobs?
TrueBlueGrowth builds professional contractor websites that convert visitors into leads.
Request a Free Demo