Timber Calculator
Work out how much decking or flooring timber you need. Enter the area to cover and the calculator returns the quantity (allowing for waste) and an indicative cost.
How we estimate this
Boards are sold by the lineal metre, so you convert your area to lineal metres using the board width. For ~140mm boards, each square metre needs about 7.1 lineal metres, plus about 10% for cuts and waste.
Pricing reviewed: October 2026.
Pricing reviewed October 2026. Indicative Australian costs, not a quote.
Understanding timbers in Australia
Boards are sold by the lineal metre, so you convert your area to lineal metres using the board width. For ~140mm boards, each square metre needs about 7.1 lineal metres, plus about 10% for cuts and waste.
Order a little extra so you have matching boards from the same batch for any repairs, and factor in joists or battens separately, this covers the boards only.
Frequently asked questions
How much timber do I need for decking?
Convert your area to lineal metres using the board width. For ~140mm boards, allow about 7.1 lineal metres per square metre, plus 10% for waste.
Is timber sold by the metre or square metre?
Boards are usually sold by the lineal metre. This calculator converts your area to lineal metres based on a typical board width, adjust for your actual boards.
Are you a supplier / trades business?
Everyone on this page is working out what timber costs because they are ready to hire. Put your business right beneath the calculator, in your state, so you are who they find. From $50/mo.