Decking Calculator
Building a deck can transform your outdoor space for events like summer barbecues or a quiet summer corner to relax. But before you get into the project, finding exactly how much decking material you need is essential. This is where you need a Decking Calculator.
What is a Decking Calculator?
A decking calculator is a tool that helps you estimate the quantity of materials required for your decking project. By simply inputting the size of your deck and the type of decking boards you plan to use, the calculator provides accurate estimates for the number of boards, joists, and screws needed you will need for the project.
How Does It Work?
The calculation requires:
- Deck Dimensions: Input the length and width of your deck in feet.
- Board Size: The boards’ width, thickness, and length (standard boards are typically 6 inches wide and 12 feet long).
- Gap Spacing: The small gaps between boards, usually around 0.25 inches, allow for water drainage and wood expansion.
Example Calculation:
Let’s say you’re building a deck that’s 20 feet long and 12 feet wide:
- Area = 20 x 12 = 240 square feet.
- With 6-inch-wide boards, each board covers 0.5 square feet.
- To cover 240 sq. ft., you will need around 480 linear feet of decking boards.
Why Use a Decking Calculator?
- The decking calculator ensures you have exactly what you need, thus avoiding buying too much or too little material.
- There is no need for manual calculations; you only need to plug in your numbers and get instant results.
- Knowing the amount of materials early helps you stick to your budget, avoiding unexpected costs mid-project.
Expert Tips:
Do not forget to account for extra material if you plan to lay the boards diagonally or add steps to your deck!
With the Decking Calculator, you can simplify planning and focus on what matters most: enjoying your new outdoor space.
FAQs about Decking Calculator
A decking board calculator estimates the number of boards required by inputting the deck dimensions and board size, accounting for spacing and waste during installation.
To calculate stairs for a deck, measure the total height from the ground to the deck surface, then divide by the desired rise per step (typically 7-8 inches) to determine the number of steps needed.
A deck weight capacity calculator assesses the load-bearing capacity by considering factors like deck size, materials, and support structure, ensuring safety and compliance with building codes.
Calculate the square footage of a deck by multiplying the length by the width, and for irregular shapes, divide into smaller sections, calculate each area, and then sum them for the total.
Measure the length and width of the deck in feet, then multiply those dimensions to get the total square footage. For complex shapes, break it down into rectangles, calculate separately, and add the areas together.
