Boards Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator estimates the number of deck boards needed based on the total deck area and the area covered by each board.
Purpose: It helps homeowners and contractors determine how many deck boards are required for a flooring project.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The total deck area is divided by the area covered by one board to determine how many boards are needed.
Details: Proper calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of materials, minimizing waste and project costs.
Tips: Enter the total deck area in square feet and the area covered by one board (default 1.5 sq ft for a standard 5.5" wide board at full length). All values must be > 0.
Q1: How do I measure my deck area?
A: Multiply the length by width of your deck in feet to get square footage.
Q2: What's a typical board area?
A: A standard 5.5" wide board that's 1 foot long covers about 0.46 sq ft (5.5/12). For an 8 ft board, that's 3.67 sq ft.
Q3: Should I account for spacing between boards?
A: Yes, include the spacing in your board area calculation or add 5-10% to the final count.
Q4: How do I account for angled cuts or waste?
A: Add 10-15% to your total board count to account for cutting and waste.
Q5: Can I use this for different board sizes?
A: Yes, simply adjust the board area input to match your specific board dimensions.