1. What is the Timber Decking Calculator?

The Timber Decking Calculator helps estimate the number of decking boards needed for a project, accounting for material waste. It's specifically designed for Bunnings timber decking products.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( N \) — Number of boards needed
• \( \text{Deck Area} \) — Total area to be covered (m²)
• \( \text{Board Length} \) — Length of individual board (m)
• \( \text{Board Width} \) — Width of individual board (m)
• \( \text{Waste Percentage} \) — Additional percentage for cutting waste (%)

Explanation: The formula calculates the minimum number of boards needed then adds a waste factor to account for cutting errors and imperfections.

3. Importance of Accurate Calculation

Details: Accurate material estimation prevents project delays, minimizes waste, and helps budget accurately for your decking project.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your deck area accurately. Standard waste percentage is 10%, but you may increase this for complex designs. Always round up to whole boards.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical waste percentage for decking?
A: 10% is standard for simple designs, but complex patterns may require 15-20% waste allowance.

Q2: Should I account for board spacing?
A: The calculator assumes tight fitting. For spaced boards, you may need slightly fewer boards.

Q3: How do I measure irregularly shaped decks?
A: Break the area into rectangles, calculate each separately, then sum the results.

Q4: Does this work for all timber types?
A: Yes, the calculation is the same for treated pine, hardwood, and composite decking.

Q5: Should I buy extra boards for future repairs?
A: It's recommended to purchase 2-3 extra boards beyond the calculated amount for future repairs.