How to use the deck material calculator
- Deck length (ft): Length parallel to the decking boards.
- Deck width (ft): Width crossed by board rows.
- Board width (in): Actual installed face width of one board.
- Gap (in): Planned space between neighboring boards.
- Waste allowance (%): Extra material for cuts and defects.
- Select the button and review the result.
Worked example
A 16 × 12 ft deck with 5.5-inch boards needs about 26 rows before waste.
Method and limitations
Rows × board length with waste allowance.
Does not design joists, beams, footings, railings, fasteners, or code compliance.
Common questions
Why might another result be different?
Inputs, rounding, policies, rates, and assumptions can differ. Compare like-for-like values and use current official information when a rate or rule can change.
Does NidXee save my entries?
No. The calculation runs in your browser. Reloading or closing the page may clear it.