Material & Cut Calculator

Plan straight deck board quantities with actual widths, gaps, orientation and stock lengths. Add editable costs, print a specification and prepare a sourcing request without an account.

Deck board quantity and layout

Calculate after changing inputs to update the specification.

Review the fastener calculator, whole-project cost tool and deck spec builder separately; confirm product-specific requirements.

Material specification & editable costs

No preset market price. Enter your own quotation or planning allowance; a single species, grade and rate applies to this list. Leave unknown costs blank.

Price and delivered material cost

A supplier reference is not verification of an offer. Square-foot pricing uses purchased board face area, not deck footprint or gaps. Include only additional charges, not costs already included in your price.

No account required. Review and edit the specification before submitting. Submission is for sourcing review, not confirmation of availability, a quote or an order.

When to Use This Calculator

This quick estimator is perfect for getting a ballpark board count before you dive into detailed planning. For a complete material takeoff including framing, hardware, stairs, and costs, use the Advanced Deck Estimator.

Fixed Length vs. Random Length Lumber

  • Fixed lengths (8', 10', 12', 16', etc.) — easier to plan, less on-site cutting, but may generate more waste if your deck dimensions don't align with standard lengths
  • Random lengths — common with exotic hardwoods like Ipe and cumaru; boards arrive in varying lengths (typically 6-20 ft), which can be more economical but requires more planning

Common Board Sizes for Decking

Nominal SizeActual WidthBest For
5/4 × 65.5"Standard residential decking
2 × 65.5"Heavy-duty or commercial decking
1 × 65.5"Lightweight decking, tropical hardwoods
2 × 4 / 1 × 43.5"Narrow plank style, railings