1. What is the Decking Calculator?

The Decking Calculator helps estimate the number of decking boards needed for a project, accounting for necessary waste percentage. It's specifically designed for Bunnings decking materials.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( N \) — Number of boards needed
• \( \text{Deck Area} \) — Total area to be decked (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 percentage to account for cutting and errors.

3. Importance of Accurate Decking Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of materials, minimizing waste while avoiding project delays due to material shortages.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your deck area accurately in square meters. Know your board dimensions. Typical waste percentage is 10-15% for simple projects, 15-20% for complex designs.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical waste percentage for decking?
A: For simple rectangular decks, 10-15% is typical. For complex patterns or angled cuts, 15-20% is recommended.

Q2: Should I round up the final number?
A: Yes, the calculator automatically rounds up to the nearest whole number since you can't purchase partial boards.

Q3: Does this account for board spacing?
A: No, this calculation assumes boards are installed without spacing. For spaced installations, you may need slightly fewer boards.

Q4: Can I use this for different board materials?
A: Yes, the formula works for any decking material as long as you input the correct board dimensions.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation provides a good estimate, but actual needs may vary based on installation pattern and cutting efficiency.