Calculating Decking Boards Made Easy

Building a deck is a fantastic way to add charm and function to your outdoor space. But before you start hammering away, you need to know how many decking boards to buy. Getting this right saves you money, time, and frustration. Don’t worry! I’m here to make decking board calculations simple and straightforward. Whether you’re a builder, landscaper, or a keen DIYer, this guide will help you get it right the first time.

Understanding Decking Board Calculations

When it comes to decking, decking board calculations are the foundation of a successful project. You need to know the size of your deck and the size of the boards you plan to use. Then, you can work out how many boards you need to cover the area.

Here’s the basic idea:

• Measure the length and width of your deck area in metres.

• Calculate the total square metres of the deck surface.

• Know the size of your decking boards (length and width).

• Factor in gaps between boards for drainage and expansion.

  
  

This process might sound a bit technical, but it’s really just simple maths. And if you want to calculate decking boards quickly, Foxhills Timber has all the tools and timber you need.

Wooden decking boards ready for installation

Why Accurate Decking Board Calculations Matter

You might think, “I’ll just buy a bit extra, and that’ll do.” But buying too many boards can waste money and space. Buying too few means extra trips to the timber yard and delays. Accurate calculations help you:

• Save money by buying just what you need.

• Avoid waste and keep your project eco-friendly.

• Plan better so you know exactly when to order materials.

• Keep your project on schedule without last-minute runs for more timber.

  
  

Plus, if you’re working with Foxhills Timber, you get quality timber products that fit your needs perfectly. From treated to untreated timber, sleepers, fencing materials, and more, they’ve got you covered.

Treated timber decking boards stacked and ready for use

How do I calculate how many deck boards I need?

Let’s get practical! Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculate how many decking boards you need:

1. Measure your deck area

   Measure the length and width of your deck in metres. For example, if your deck is 4 metres long and 3 metres wide, your deck area is 12 square metres.

   
   

2. Know your board size

   Decking boards come in various sizes. A common size is 3.6 metres long and 144mm wide (0.144 metres).

   
   

3. Calculate the coverage per board

   Multiply the length by the width of one board to get the coverage area. For example:

   3.6m (length) x 0.144m (width) = 0.5184 square metres per board.

   
   

4. Factor in gaps

   Deck boards need small gaps (usually 5mm) for drainage and expansion. This reduces the coverage slightly. To be safe, reduce the width by 5mm (0.005m). So, effective width = 0.1m.

   New coverage per board = 3.6m x 0.139m = 0.5004 square metres.

   
   

5. Calculate the number of boards

   Divide the total deck area by the coverage per board:

   12 sqm ÷ 0.5004 sqm = approximately 23.98 boards.

   
   

6. Round up

   Always round up to the next whole number. So, you’ll need 24 boards.

   
   

7. Add extra for cuts and mistakes

   It’s smart to add 5-10% extra boards for cutting errors or future repairs. For 24 boards, add 2 more boards. Total = 27 boards.

   
   

This method works for any deck size and board dimension. It’s simple, reliable, and saves you from guesswork.

Measuring tape on decking boards for accurate calculation

Tips for Choosing the Right Decking Boards

Choosing the right decking boards is just as important as calculating how many you need. Here are some tips to help you pick the best timber for your project:

• Treated vs Untreated: Treated timber lasts longer outdoors. It resists rot and insects. Untreated timber is cheaper but needs sealing or painting.

• Wood type: Softwoods like pine are affordable and easy to work with. Hardwoods like oak or tropical woods are more durable but pricier.

• Board profile: Some boards have grooves or ridges for grip. Others are smooth for a sleek look.

• Length options: Longer boards mean fewer joins but can be harder to handle. Shorter boards are easier to manage but need more joins.

• Sustainability: Look for FSC or PEFC certification to ensure your timber is responsibly sourced.

  
  

Foxhills Timber offers a wide range of decking boards to suit every need. Whether you want treated softwood or premium hardwood, they have quality options ready to go.

Making Your Decking Project a Breeze

Once you’ve got your decking board calculations sorted and your timber chosen, the rest is smooth sailing. Here are some quick tips to keep your project on track:

• Order early: Timber can take time to deliver, especially in busy seasons.

• Prepare your site: Make sure the ground is level and supports are in place.

• Use the right tools: A good saw, drill, and screws designed for decking make a big difference.

• Follow safety rules: Wear gloves, goggles, and work carefully.

• Ask for help: If you’re unsure, Foxhills Timber staff are happy to advise on products and techniques.

  
  

With the right planning and materials, your deck will be the envy of the neighbourhood in no time!

Ready to get started? Head over to Foxhills Timber and calculate decking boards for your next project. Quality timber, expert advice, and great prices are just a click away!