Should the gap be included?
Yes. Repeated board gaps affect row count across the deck.
MAXScanner calculator
Deck Board Calculator — Rows, Pieces & Linear Length
Estimate deck-board rows, stock pieces and total linear decking from deck dimensions, actual board face width, gap and stock length. The result is before project-specific waste or layout cuts.
Result
26 rows
26 stock pieces before project-specific waste · 416 ft linear decking
1 piece(s) per row · board face 5.5 in + gap 0.125 in · stock 16 ft
Formula and worked example
rows=ceil((deck width+gap)/(board face+gap)); linear length=rows×deck length; pieces/row=ceil(deck length/stock length).
A 16×12 ft deck with 5.5 in boards and 0.125 in gaps needs about 26 rows before layout-specific waste.
Assumptions
- Boards run along the entered deck length.
- Use actual board face width, not nominal lumber size.
- Add project-specific waste separately for staggering, trimming, picture frames and defects.
Last updated: 2026-09-16
Frequently asked questions
Does this size joists?
No. It estimates decking only, not structural framing.