Calculate the materials needed for your deck railing including balusters (spindles), railing posts, top rail, and bottom rail. Enter the total railing length and baluster spacing to get accurate material counts that meet building code requirements.
Enter Your Measurements
Results
Balusters
133
balusters
Railing Posts
8
posts
Top Rail Pieces
7
pieces
Bottom Rail Pieces
7
pieces
Post Caps
8
caps
Railing Sections
7
sections
Formula
How to Use This Calculator
How to Use
- 1
Measure the total length of railing needed in feet.
- 2
Enter the baluster spacing center-to-center (maximum 4 inches per most codes).
- 3
Enter the baluster width (1.5 inches for standard 2x2 balusters).
- 4
Enter the desired section length between posts (6 to 8 feet is typical).
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum gap between balusters?
How tall does deck railing need to be?
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About This Calculator
This calculator uses the formula: Balusters per Section = (Section Length × 12 ÷ Spacing) + 1 | Posts = Sections + 1. All calculations follow industry-standard methods. Results are estimates — always verify with a licensed professional for structural or code-compliant work.
Built and maintained by the CalcSmart team. Last updated March 2026.
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