Decking needed by deck size
| Deck size | Area | Decking to buy |
|---|---|---|
| 8 × 10 ft | 80 ft² | 194 linear ft |
| 10 × 10 ft | 100 ft² | 243 linear ft |
| 10 × 12 ft | 120 ft² | 286 linear ft |
| 12 × 12 ft | 144 ft² | 344 linear ft |
| 12 × 16 ft | 192 ft² | 463 linear ft |
| 14 × 16 ft | 224 ft² | 539 linear ft |
| 16 × 16 ft | 256 ft² | 616 linear ft |
| 16 × 20 ft | 320 ft² | 757 linear ft |
| 20 × 20 ft | 400 ft² | 947 linear ft |
| 20 × 24 ft | 480 ft² | 1,144 linear ft |
Linear-foot quantities depend on board direction, actual board width, gap and waste. They are not a structural framing design.
How deck board quantity is calculated
First determine how many board rows fit across the deck width using the actual board width plus the installed gap. Multiply the number of rows by the board run length, then add an allowance for cuts and waste.
Example: 12 × 16 deck
With boards running 12 feet and rows spanning the 16-foot dimension, 5.5-inch decking with a 1/8-inch gap requires about 463 linear feet including 10% extra.
Calculate the complete deck
Use your actual board width, gap, joist spacing, footing dimensions and waste allowance.
Open Deck Materials Calculator →For joists, screws and footings, browse the Deck Planning Hub.