Board Coverage Calculator

Understanding Board Coverage

Proper board coverage calculation ensures accurate material ordering and efficient installation.

  • Board Types Different profiles suit different applications.
  • Coverage Area Account for overlaps and waste factors.
  • Installation Method Affects material requirements and appearance.
  • Waste Factor Include extra for cuts and damaged pieces.

Design Considerations

Pattern

Consider visual impact of board layout.

Moisture

Plan for expansion and contraction.

Ventilation

Ensure proper airflow behind boards.

Fastening

Use appropriate fasteners for material.

Board Type Guide

  • Lap Siding Traditional overlapping installation for weather protection.
  • Wall Panel Large format panels for quick coverage.
  • Shiplap Decorative profile with minimal gaps.
  • Tongue and Groove Secure connection for tight seams.

Installation Tips

  • Surface Prep Ensure flat, clean mounting surface.
  • Starting Level Begin with level starter strip.
  • Fastening Pattern Follow manufacturer specifications.
  • Finishing Properly seal ends and edges.

Board Specifications

Comprehensive technical specifications for board materials.

  • Drywall Properties
    • Thickness: 1/4" - 5/8"
    • Width: 48" - 54"
    • Length: 8' - 16'
    • Weight: 1.6-2.2 psf
    • Fire Rating: Type X
    • Sound Rating: STC 35-45
  • Plywood Standards
    • Grade: A-D
    • Exposure: 1-2
    • Span Rating: 24/0-48/24
    • Veneer Layers: 3-7
    • Bond Type: Exterior
    • Performance Cat: 1-4
  • OSB Metrics
    • Density: 40-45 pcf
    • Edge Profile: T&G/Square
    • Strength Axis: 24/16
    • Moisture Content: 2-8%
    • Thermal Resist: R-0.62
    • Durability: PS2-10

Installation Standards

Critical specifications for professional installation:

  • Fastening Requirements
    • Screw Spacing: 8"-12"
    • Nail Pattern: 6/12
    • Edge Distance: 3/8"
    • Joint Gap: 1/8"
    • Support Spacing: 16"-24"
    • Penetration: 5/8" min
  • Environmental Controls
    • Temperature: 50-95°F
    • Humidity: 30-60%
    • Acclimation: 48 hrs
    • Ventilation: 4 ACH
    • Substrate Moisture: <12%
    • Surface Temp: >40°F
  • Layout Parameters
    • Stagger Pattern: 4' min
    • Corner Gap: 1/4"
    • Control Joint: 30'
    • Ceiling Span: 24" max
    • Wall Height: 8'-20'
    • Blocking: 48" O.C.

Coverage Calculations

Key specifications for material estimation:

  • Area Factors
    • Waste Factor: 10-15%
    • Joint Coverage: 2-3%
    • Opening Deduct: >16 ft²
    • Corner Loss: 5%
    • Pattern Match: 10-20%
    • Overlap: 1.5"
  • Material Requirements
    • Fasteners: 1.5/ft²
    • Adhesive: 1 tube/100ft²
    • Joint Compound: 0.053 gal/ft²
    • Tape: 0.4 ft/ft²
    • Corner Bead: 0.1 ft/ft²
    • Trim: 0.2 ft/ft²
  • Performance Metrics
    • Fire Rating: 1-4 hr
    • Impact Rating: Level 1-3
    • Mold Resistance: 10
    • Water Absorption: <5%
    • Surface Burning: Class A
    • VOC Emissions: <50 g/L