Building your dream deck starts with careful planning, and one of the most crucial steps in this process is accurately calculating the number of decking boards you need. A precise calculation ensures that you avoid unnecessary expenses and that your deck turns out exactly as you envisioned. Whether you’re designing a straightforward square deck or a more intricate layout with borders and angles, understanding how to calculate how many decking boards you need is essential for a successful project.
Understanding the Basics: Decking Board Sizes
Before exploring the specifics of how to calculate how many decking boards you need, it’s important to understand the basics of decking board sizes. Most decking boards come in standard lengths of 12, 16, and 20 feet. The width of a standard decking board is typically 5 1/2 inches, with a gap between boards of approximately 1/8 inch. This gap is important for ventilation and allows for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calculating Decking Boards
1. Measure the Dimensions of Your Deck
The first step in calculating how many decking boards you need is to measure the length and width of your deck. If your deck is square or rectangular, this part is straightforward. For example, if your deck is 16 feet wide and 24 feet long, these measurements will form the basis of your calculation.
2. Determine the Orientation and Design of Your Deck Boards
The orientation and design of your decking boards will significantly impact the number of boards you need. Consider whether you want the boards to run parallel to the house, at a 45-degree angle, or include special design elements like borders or dividers. For instance, running boards at an angle will create more waste due to the need for cutting, which must be factored into your calculations.
3. Calculate the Number of Boards Required
To calculate the number of boards required, you’ll need to perform some basic math. Here’s a simplified process:
- Calculate the Total Length of Decking Needed: Multiply the width of your deck by the number of rows required to cover the length. For a 24-foot-wide deck with boards that are 5 1/2 inches wide (including the gap), divide 24 feet (288 inches) by 5 5/8 inches (board width plus gap). This will give you the number of rows needed.
- Account for Waste: If your design includes angled boards or borders, add an extra 10-15% to your total to account for waste. This ensures you have enough material for cuts and mistakes.
- Example Calculation: For a 16-foot by 24-foot deck with boards running parallel to the house, you would need approximately 50 boards of 16 feet each. If you choose a more complex design, you might need 55 to 60 boards to account for the additional waste.
Custom Designs and Special Considerations
Every deck is unique, and your specific design choices can alter the number of decking boards you’ll need. For example, if you opt for a border around your deck or a divider in the middle, you’ll need to calculate these separately. Angled boards can also increase the amount of material required due to the increased waste from cutting.
If you prefer a more traditional look with no gaps between boards, there are products like TimberTech’s tongue and groove decking that eliminate gaps entirely. However, these boards require a different calculation method and may require more precise measurements to ensure a proper fit.
The Importance of a Detailed Sketch
One of the most valuable tools in determining how many decking boards you need is a detailed sketch of your deck. A hand sketch allows you to visualize your design and understand how the boards will be laid out. This sketch can be shared with your supplier or contractor to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the materials needed.
Getting Professional Help
While calculating decking boards may seem straightforward, it can become complex depending on your design choices. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals. We can provide a complete service, including a detailed takeoff, sketch, and calculation of all materials needed for your deck. Whether you’re building the deck yourself or working with a contractor, getting a precise estimate is crucial to avoid delays and additional costs.
In Summary
Calculating how many decking boards you need is a critical step in building a deck that meets your expectations. By measuring your deck, considering your design, and using the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you have the right amount of material on hand.
If you need assistance or want a professional to handle the calculations, contact us for a full-service solution tailored to your needs.
