How to Plan Your Decking Board Layout Pattern
The pattern you choose affects everything: how your deck looks, how much material you need, how difficult installation will be, and even how your deck performs structurally. Take time to plan this right before cutting any boards.
Quick Summary
30-60 minutes
Varies by pattern
5-20% depending on pattern
Why Pattern Planning Matters
Your deck pattern isn't just aesthetic—it impacts material costs, installation difficulty, and structural performance. A diagonal pattern might look stunning, but if you haven't planned for the 15% extra material and closer joist spacing it requires, you'll run into problems mid-project.
Planning now means fewer trips to the lumber yard, less wasted material, and a finished deck that looks intentional rather than improvised.
Common Deck Board Patterns
Straight (Parallel) Pattern
EasiestBoards run perpendicular to the joists in parallel lines. This is the most common pattern and the easiest to install. Boards typically run perpendicular to the house (so water drains away), but can run parallel for a different visual effect.
Material waste
5-10%
Skill level
Beginner
Joist spacing
Standard 16" OC
Best for: Beginners, rectangular decks, budget-conscious projects
Diagonal Pattern (45 Degrees)
IntermediateBoards run at a 45-degree angle to the joists. This creates visual interest and can make a small deck feel larger. Every board requires an angled cut at the edges, and offcuts are often too short to use elsewhere.
Material waste
15%
Skill level
Intermediate
Joist spacing
12" OC recommended
Important: Diagonal patterns require closer joist spacing because boards span joists at an angle, reducing the effective support. Plan this during framing, not during decking.
Herringbone Pattern
AdvancedBoards meet at 90-degree angles creating a zigzag pattern. This is a dramatic, high-end look that requires careful planning and precise cuts. It's time-intensive but makes a stunning visual statement.
Material waste
20%+
Skill level
Advanced
Joist spacing
12" OC or blocking
Best for: Experienced builders, showcase decks, when visual impact is the priority
Picture Frame Border
IntermediateA border of boards runs around the deck perimeter, with the interior boards running in a different direction (usually perpendicular to the border). This creates a polished, finished look and hides cut ends.
Material waste
10-15%
Skill level
Intermediate
Extra framing
Border blocking required
Pro Tip: Plan the border width to work with your joist spacing. A double-board border (11") looks proportional on most decks and provides adequate support.
Chevron (V-Pattern)
AdvancedBoards meet at a center line forming a V shape. This is similar to herringbone but with a central seam running down the deck. Creates a bold, symmetrical look that draws the eye.
Material waste
15-20%
Skill level
Advanced
Center board
Requires center joist
Step-by-Step Planning Process
Step 1: Measure Your Deck
Get accurate measurements of your deck frame. Note:
- Overall length and width
- Joist direction and spacing
- Location of posts, stairs, and obstacles
- Any angles or curves in the deck shape
Step 2: Consider Your Skill Level
Be honest about your experience. A gorgeous herringbone pattern isn't worth it if frustration leads to mistakes.
- First deck: Stick with straight pattern
- Some experience: Try diagonal or picture frame
- Experienced builder: Herringbone and chevron are options
Step 3: Calculate Material Requirements
Start with your deck square footage, then add waste factor:
| Pattern | Waste Factor | 400 sq ft Deck Needs |
|---|---|---|
| Straight | 5-10% | 420-440 sq ft material |
| Picture Frame | 10-15% | 440-460 sq ft material |
| Diagonal | 15% | 460 sq ft material |
| Herringbone/Chevron | 20%+ | 480+ sq ft material |
Step 4: Sketch Your Layout
Draw your deck to scale on graph paper or use deck planning software. Mark:
- Where the first board starts
- Where board joints will fall (stagger by at least 2 joists)
- How the pattern meets posts and stairs
- Any partial-width boards at the edges
Pro Tip: Plan so the last board at the deck's edge is at least half-width. A narrow sliver of decking at the edge looks unfinished.
Step 5: Verify Joist Support
Your joist layout must support your chosen pattern:
- Straight pattern: Standard 16" OC joist spacing works
- Diagonal pattern: Reduce to 12" OC for 5/4 decking
- Picture frame: Add blocking at border location
- Herringbone: May require additional blocking throughout
Board Direction: Which Way Should They Run?
Beyond pattern, consider the direction your boards will run relative to the house and the deck's primary viewing angle.
Perpendicular to House (Most Common)
Boards run away from the house. This is standard because joists typically run parallel to the house for easy ledger attachment. Water drains naturally toward the yard, and the deck appears to extend outward from the home.
Parallel to House
Boards run along the house. This requires joists to run perpendicular to the house (extending outward). This orientation makes narrow decks appear wider and can create interesting visual effects, but requires different framing approach.
Primary Viewing Angle
Consider how you'll most often view the deck. Boards running toward you create depth, while boards running across your view make the space feel wider. Stand where you'll spend the most time and visualize both options.
Common Pattern Planning Mistakes
Not accounting for waste
Running out of material mid-project is frustrating and delays completion. Always add appropriate waste factor for your pattern.
Ignoring joist spacing requirements
A diagonal pattern on 16" OC joists can lead to bouncy, unsupported decking. This is a framing issue that's hard to fix after the fact.
Starting without a reference line
Without a planned starting point and reference line, your pattern can drift off-square, resulting in awkward cuts at the far end.
Not planning joint locations
Random joint placement looks messy. Plan where board ends meet and ensure they're staggered by at least two joists.
FAQ
How much extra material do I need for a diagonal deck pattern?
Diagonal patterns require approximately 15% more material than straight patterns. This accounts for angled cuts at deck edges where offcuts are often too short to reuse. For a 400 square foot deck, order materials for 460 square feet.
Which deck board pattern is easiest for beginners?
A straight (parallel) pattern running perpendicular to the joists is the easiest. Boards run in one direction with simple 90-degree cuts. This requires the least waste and fewest complex cuts, making it ideal for first-time builders.
Can I run deck boards parallel to the house?
Yes, but this requires joists to run perpendicular to the house. This orientation can make a narrow deck appear wider. Plan for this during framing as it affects ledger and joist layout.
Do I need to change joist spacing for a diagonal pattern?
Yes, diagonal patterns put more stress on joists. For 5/4 decking on a 45-degree diagonal, reduce joist spacing from 16" to 12" on center. Check your decking manufacturer's specifications for their recommendations.