Home & DIY

Deck Calculator

Boards, joists and cost for a deck.

Enter your values

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
Deck boards (16 ft)
28
Board rows
26
Joists at 16 in centres
13
Deck area
192 sq ft
Estimated board cost
$504.00

Quick answer

Deck board count depends on deck area, board width and the gap between boards, plus joists at 16 inch centres.

How to use the Deck Calculator

  1. 1Enter your deck dimensions.
  2. 2Enter board width and spacing gap.
  3. 3Add 5% for cuts and defects.

Frequently asked questions

What gap should I leave?

1/8 to 1/4 inch for pressure-treated boards that will shrink as they dry.

How deep are footings?

Below your local frost line — often 36–48 inches in cold climates.