A deck is a great way to add interest to your home and allow you the opportunity to really enjoy some seriously stylish outdoor living. If you’ve decided that you’re going to plan and execute your whole deck project on a DIY basis, there are several things you’ll need, but for the purpose of this post, we’ve assumed that you’ve already planned and designed your deck and have a drawing from which you can make accurate calculations.
Here’s how to calculate your decking area:
When you’re measuring your decking plans, it’s important not to forget to allow for steps and any other areas which may be tucked away from the main area of your deck before placing your final order.
Because most decking is sold and priced in m2, it’s best to measure your deck in m2. A m2 of decking is a section of decking which measures exactly one metre by one metre. That said, decking is normally sold in packs, which may, or may not measure exactly one m2 (in most cases it won’t). If this is the case, your decking supplier will normally provide you with an accurate indication of the m2 covered by each pack, allowing you to calculate with confidence.
IMPORTANT: No matter what size your deck, you should always allow for the 5% wastage as this will allow you to complete your project in the knowledge that you’re not going to run out of deck.
Finally, many decking suppliers offer decking calculators to help simplify things, but these calculators still rely on accurate measurements, so it’s important to be careful with your measurements, even if you’re using an online calculator!
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FAQ
1. How do I calculate the area of my square or rectangular deck?
To calculate the total surface area of your square or rectangular deck, you need to measure the length and width of your deck and then multiply one by the other. Don’t forget to add an additional 5% to the total, to account for wastage.
2. How do I calculate the area of a non-rectangular deck?
If your deck is an “odd” shape, the best way to tackle the project is to split your deck into square or rectangular “chunks” which you can mark out on your plan; measure; calculate and add together to reach your total decking area.
3. How should I consider steps or other areas tucked away from the main deck area?
When you’re measuring your decking plans, it’s important not to forget to allow for steps and any other areas which may be tucked away from the main area of your deck before placing your final order.
4. How is decking usually sold and priced?
Most decking is sold and priced in square meters (m2), so it’s best to measure your deck in m2. Decking is normally sold in packs, which may not measure exactly one m2. Your decking supplier will normally provide you with an accurate indication of the m2 covered by each pack.
5. What is the purpose of the 5% wastage allowance?
The 5% wastage allowance allows you to complete your project with the confidence that you’re not going to run out of decking. This covers any mistakes, damage, or offcuts.