Deck Board Spacing Calculator
Count the deck boards required for your surface — with your board width, gap, and waste allowance — and get total linear feet to buy.
Along the joists — board run
Across the joists — board count direction
5/4×6 and 2×6 actual = 5.5″
1/8″ typical for dry, 1/4″ for wet climates
Cuts, defects, and mistakes
Boards needed26
Total linear feet416 lf
With 5% waste28 boards
Based on 5.625″ pitch per board (5.5″ board + 0.125″ gap). Stagger butt joints across at least 2 joists and keep gaps even — use a spacer nail or 1/8″ shim.