1. What is the Home Depot Decking Calculator?

The Home Depot Decking Calculator helps you estimate the number of deck boards needed for your project based on the total deck area and the coverage area of each board.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following simple formula:

Where:

• \( sqft \) — Total deck area in square feet
• \( board\_sqft \) — Coverage area of one board in square feet

Explanation: The calculation divides your total deck area by the coverage area of one board to determine how many boards you'll need.

3. Importance of Accurate Decking Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of materials, avoiding both shortages and costly overages. It helps with budgeting and project planning.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure your total deck area accurately in square feet
• Check the coverage area per board (typically 5.5 sq ft for standard 5.5" wide boards)
• Add 10-15% extra for waste and cutting

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the standard coverage per deck board?
A: Standard 5.5" wide boards typically cover about 5.5 square feet per 12-foot board.

Q2: Should I add extra for waste?
A: Yes, it's recommended to add 10-15% extra to account for cutting waste and mistakes.

Q3: How do I measure my deck area?
A: Multiply length by width for rectangular decks. For irregular shapes, break into rectangles and add them together.

Q4: Does this account for board spacing?
A: The coverage per board should already account for proper spacing (typically 1/8" to 1/4" between boards).

Q5: What about railings and stairs?
A: This calculator is for deck boards only. Railings and stairs require separate calculations.