Trex Decking Formula:
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The Trex Decking Calculator helps determine the number of composite decking boards needed for a decking project in the UK, accounting for material waste during installation.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the minimum number of boards needed to cover the deck area, then adds a waste factor to account for cutting and installation losses.
Details: Proper calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of materials, minimizing waste while avoiding project delays due to material shortages. This is particularly important with composite decking materials like Trex.
Tips: Measure your deck area accurately in square meters. Use the actual board dimensions from the product specifications. Typical waste percentage is 10-15% for simple layouts and 15-20% for complex patterns.
Q1: What is a typical waste percentage for decking projects?
A: For simple rectangular decks, 10-15% is typical. For complex patterns with many cuts, 15-20% is recommended.
Q2: Should I round up the board count?
A: Yes, the calculator automatically rounds up to the nearest whole board since you can't purchase partial boards.
Q3: Does this work for all decking patterns?
A: This calculation works best for straight patterns. For diagonal or herringbone patterns, you may need a higher waste percentage.
Q4: Are Trex boards standard sizes?
A: Trex offers various board sizes. Always check the specific product dimensions as lengths typically range from 3-6 meters and widths from 140-180mm.
Q5: Should I buy extra boards for future repairs?
A: It's recommended to purchase 1-2 extra boards beyond the calculated amount for potential future repairs, as color lots may vary.