Screw Requirement Calculator
Calculate the number of screws needed for your project, based on area, spacing or pieces per element.
Whether drywall, roof battens or deck boards: the number of screws needed depends on area and screw spacing. For a single row – like screws along a timber board – use the "Row (length)" mode, which distributes the screws evenly.
Pro tips
- Plan tighter spacing at edges and corners than in the field.
- Always buy a small reserve for waste and touch-ups.
- Keep at least 15-20 mm edge distance in timber to avoid splitting – pre-drill for hardwood.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart should screws be in wood?
A common spacing is 15-30 cm across a surface, depending on material thickness and load. Keep at least 15-20 mm distance from the edge to avoid splitting.
Do I need to pre-drill for wood screws?
For hardwood and near edges, yes – pre-drilling prevents the wood from splitting as the screw goes in. For softwood with enough edge distance, it's usually not necessary.
How many screws do I need per square meter?
It depends on the grid: at 30 cm spacing that's about 11 screws per m², at 20 cm spacing around 25. The calculator above works this out automatically for your project, including a reserve.
What screw length do I need?
As a rule of thumb, the screw should penetrate the base material by about 2.5 times the thickness of the material being fastened – for 20 mm thick boards, aim for a total screw length of at least 50 mm.