Deck Material Calculator — Boards, Joists & Concrete
Get a fast takeoff for a rectangular deck. This calculator estimates board rows, joist count, footing concrete, and a practical materials range for early planning.
← More Free ToolsBoard estimate assumes boards run the full deck length with a 1/8 inch gap. Concrete uses 3 bags of 80 lb mix per footing for a quick planning number.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What deck board size should I use?
Most residential decks use 5.5 inch wide decking boards because they install faster and create a familiar finished look. Narrower 3.5 inch boards can add detail but increase material and labor counts.
What joist spacing is standard for a deck?
Sixteen inches on center is the common baseline for many wood decks. Composite decking often feels better at 12 or 16 inches depending on the product, while 24 inches is usually reserved for specific structural conditions and manufacturer approvals.
How many footings does a deck need?
Footing count depends on span tables, loads, beam layout, and local code. This calculator gives a planning estimate using footing rows and roughly 8 foot post spacing, but final layout should follow your framing plan and code requirements.
Is composite better than pressure treated wood?
Composite usually costs more up front but needs less staining and sealing later. Pressure treated wood costs less initially, but it needs more maintenance and may weather faster if it is not cared for.
How much maintenance does a deck need?
Pressure treated decks usually need periodic washing, sealing, and repairs. Composite decks still need cleaning, but they usually avoid the repeated stain-and-seal cycle that wood decks require.
Need the estimate to look professional?
Build your deck numbers into a client-ready quote with the Wingman Protocol store. It is a faster way to price change orders, deposits, and allowances without starting from scratch.