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How to Calculate Decking Materials
Formula
Building a deck requires careful material estimation for boards, joists, fasteners, and posts. Our calculator uses standard 5.5-inch wide deck boards and 16-inch joist spacing.
Composite decking is more expensive upfront but lasts decades without staining. Pressure-treated lumber is the most affordable option.
Common use cases:
- New deck construction
- Deck resurfacing
- Porch and patio builds
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. David Park
Applied Mathematician, PhD Mathematics
David holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from MIT. He has published research on numerical methods and computational algorithms used in engineering and scientific calculators.
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