Do I need a permit for a floating deck?

Usually no if it's under 30 in high, under 200 sq ft, and not attached to the house. Check your local building department to be sure.

How many deck blocks for a 10×12 floating deck?

9 blocks — three rows of three under the joists at ~4 ft spacing. Add 1 in of leveling gravel under each block.

Deck Calculator for a Ground-Level Deck — Materials

How the deck calculator works

Board count = (deck length ÷ board length) × (deck width in inches ÷ board actual width). A "5/4×6" board is really 5.5 in wide. Joists at 16 in on-center: (length in inches ÷ 16) + 1.

Popular uses for the deck calculator

Deck for a 12×12 Deck

Estimate boards and fasteners for a 12×12 ft deck.

Deck for a 16×20 Deck

Estimate materials for a 16×20 ft deck.

Deck for a Pool Deck

Estimate materials for a pool surround deck.

Deck for a Second-Story Deck

Estimate materials for a second-story elevated deck.

Deck for a Ground-Level Deck

Estimate materials for a floating ground-level deck.

Frequently asked questions

How many deck boards for a 16×12 deck?

At 12 ft boards and 5.5 in actual width, about 27 boards plus 10% waste — order 30.

How far apart should deck joists be?

16 in on-center for standard decking; 12 in for composite or for spans over 12 ft.

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