Calculator page · 3 min read
Deck cut list calculator
Deck framing uses linear cuts for joists and often mixed lengths for decking boards. List each length and optimize against purchased stock.
Run the numbers in Cutlistor
The free linear cut list optimizer accepts multiple stock lengths, part lengths, quantities, and kerf. Review yield before you buy another bundle of sticks.
Mixed lengths
Enter multiple stock lengths if you buy both 8 ft and 16 ft material.
Step-by-step linear workflow
List every finished length and quantity. Enter the stock lengths you actually buy (8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, 6 m, 10 ft conduit sticks, or mill bar lengths). Set kerf to match your saw, abrasive wheel, or cold saw blade.
Run the optimizer and read how many sticks you need plus remaining offcuts. If offcuts are useful inventory, note their lengths on the PDF export. If they are scrap, compare another stock length SKU before purchasing.
For mixed cabinet or framing jobs, run panels in the sheet optimizer and sticks here. Link both exports in the job folder so the crew sees one complete cut package.
Kerf, mitered ends, and offcuts
Linear optimization is sensitive to kerf because every cut consumes blade width. Measure once on scrap and reuse that value across similar jobs until you change blades.
Cutlistor supports mitered ends on linear parts when your process needs angled cuts accounted for in length planning. Enter finished lengths after your shop's standard allowances for fittings, threads, or cope cuts.
Decide whether short remnants are worth keeping. The optimizer highlights yield so you can compare buying 10 ft versus 12 ft bundles on the same cut list.
Import, export, and verification
Import CSV or XLSX from /samples/cutlist-import/ when Excel already holds stud, trim, pipe, or bar lengths. Use the linear sample headers: name, length, qty, plus optional material columns.
Export PDF cut sequences for the floor. Paid plans add saved projects and higher limits. Verify lengths against field measurements on structural or plumbing work before cutting.
Free anonymous use includes daily limits and up to 50 part rows per session, enough to plan a wall run or trim package before signing in for persistence.
Before you cut: quick checklist
Confirm stock length matches the bundle on order. Confirm kerf for the process (wood blade vs metal abrasive). Confirm quantities include waste for cope, miter, or threading allowances you did not model explicitly.
When a job mixes sheet panels and linear sticks, document both optimizers in the same job notes so purchasing does not only count panel sheets.
FAQ
- Is this linear calculator free?
- Yes. The linear cut list optimizer runs in the browser with free-tier daily limits.
- Can I use multiple stock lengths?
- Yes. Enter every stick length you purchase and the optimizer chooses efficient patterns.
- Does it handle pipe and conduit?
- Yes. Any length-based stock (lumber, trim, pipe, tube, bar) fits the same 1D workflow.
- How do I account for kerf?
- Set kerf to match your blade or wheel width. The optimizer sequences cuts with that loss included.
- Can I pair this with sheet nesting?
- Yes. Use the sheet optimizer for panels and this tool for sticks on mixed jobs.