Planning Your Deck Boards
Choosing the right board pattern and calculating accurate material quantities can save you time and money on your deck project.
Board Patterns
Straight: The simplest and most economical pattern. Boards run parallel to the longest dimension. About 10% waste.
Diagonal: Boards run at a 45-degree angle. Creates visual interest but requires more cuts and about 15% extra material.
Herringbone: A V-shaped pattern that looks stunning but requires the most material (20% waste) and additional framing support for direction changes.
Board Spacing
Proper spacing between deck boards is essential for water drainage, air circulation, and wood expansion. The standard gap is 1/8 inch for wood decking. Composite boards may require different spacing per manufacturer specs.