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Calculate the exact number of decking boards needed for your project. Account for board dimensions, patterns, gaps, and waste to get accurate material estimates.
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| Nominal Size | Actual Size | Coverage (per LF) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/4 × 6 | 1" × 5.5" | 0.46 sq ft | Standard wood decking |
| 2 × 6 | 1.5" × 5.5" | 0.46 sq ft | Heavy duty, wide spans |
| 2 × 4 | 1.5" × 3.5" | 0.29 sq ft | Narrow boards, details |
| Composite 6" | 1" × 6" | 0.50 sq ft | Low maintenance decking |
| Composite 8" | 1" × 8" | 0.67 sq ft | Wider look, fewer boards |
Always round up partial boards and add waste for cuts.
Linear feet is useful when ordering lumber by the foot.
A 5.5" × 12' board covers 5.5 sq ft.
Two screws per joist at each board crossing.
Boards run parallel to the house or longest edge. Most efficient use of material with minimal cuts.
Boards run at 45° angle. Creates visual interest but requires more cuts at edges. Use 12" joist spacing.
V-pattern with boards meeting at angles. Striking appearance but highest material waste and more complex framing.
Border boards around perimeter with field boards inside. Adds visual definition to deck edges.
For 5.5" wide boards: approximately 2.2 boards per sq ft. For 6" wide boards: approximately 2 boards per sq ft. This varies with gap width and board length efficiency.
Leave 1/8" to 1/4" gap between boards. Use 1/8" for most wood decking and 1/4" for composite. Gaps allow drainage and allow boards to expand without buckling.
Add 10% for parallel patterns, 15% for diagonal or picture frame, and 20% for herringbone. Also add 5% extra for first-time builders or complex deck shapes.
Deck boards typically run perpendicular to joists and parallel to the longest dimension or the house. This minimizes butt joints and creates better visual flow.
Choose board lengths that divide evenly into your deck dimension. For a 12' wide deck, 12' boards are perfect. For 14', use 16' boards with 2' waste that can be used elsewhere.