Decking Board and Linear Metre Calculator

Formula

ceil(Length × Width × (1+Waste allowance/100) / ((Board face width+Gap between boards)/100) / Board length)

Planning estimate. Check product specifications and local requirements before purchasing.

Worked example: Decking Calculator

Measurements in this example

Length6 m
Width4 m
Board face width14 cm
Gap between boards0.5 cm
Board length4 m
Waste allowance10 %

Calculated quantities

Area24 m²
Total board length182.07 m
Whole pieces46

What to check

This calculation uses: Length, Width, Board face width, Gap between boards, Board length, Waste allowance. It returns: Area, Total board length, Whole pieces.

Measure the finished deck surface and decide which way boards will run. Calculate stairs and picture-frame borders separately.

Deck area is divided by board width plus the joint. The resulting lineal length is increased for cuts and divided by stock length.

Whole-board count is a purchasing estimate, not a cutting plan. Board joints must land on suitable framing.

Check manufacturer spacing, thermal movement, end gaps and permitted spans before ordering the substructure.

Use the units beside each field. The values in the worked example are starting inputs; replace them with your measurements and the specifications of your material.

Compare alternatives

Open a tool, enter your measured dimensions, then save an estimate. Keep another version if you want to compare products or allowances.

Project sheet

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