Wainscoting Calculator

Wainscoting Layout Calculator

Wainscoting Calculator

ft
in
in
Standard widths: 2.5″, 3.5″ (1×4), 5.5″ (1×6).
in
Calculator will adjust this slightly to make all panels even.
Exact Panel Width —
Number of Panels —
Number of Stiles (Verticals) —
Total Stile Usage —

Struggling with the math for your board and batten or wainscoting project? You aren't alone.

One of the biggest challenges in DIY wall molding is figuring out the spacing so you don't end up with a tiny, awkward panel at the far end of the wall.

This tool eliminates the guesswork. It takes your total wall length and automatically calculates the perfect spacing to ensure every single panel is exactly the same size, giving your room that high-end, professional finish.

How to Use This Wainscoting Calculator

Follow these simple steps to generate your cut list dimensions:

  1. Measure Your Wall: Enter the total length of the wall you are covering in Feet and Inches (e.g., 10 ft, 4 in).
  2. Define Your Stiles: Enter the width of the vertical boards you are using.
    • Common sizes: 1x3s are actually 2.5" wide; 1x4s are 3.5" wide.
  3. Set Your Preferred Look: Input your Preferred Panel Width.
    • Note: The calculator treats this as a "target." It will adjust this number slightly up or down to ensure every panel on the wall is equal width.
  4. Review the Layout: Click "Calculate Layout" to see your Exact Panel Width and a visual map of how the wall will look.

Important Notes & Disclaimers

  • The "Perfect Wall" Myth: This calculator assumes your walls are perfectly straight and square. In reality, drywall often bows. Always measure your wall at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the average or longest measurement depending on your trim style.
  • Material Estimation: The "Total Stile Usage" is the linear length of vertical boards needed for the layout only. It does not account for top/bottom rails, cap molding, or waste (cuts/errors). Always buy 10-15% extra lumber.
  • Obstacles: This tool divides the wall evenly. It does not account for outlets, light switches, or vents. You may need to shift your layout slightly if a stile lands directly on an electrical box.

💡 Pro Tip: The "Spacer Block" Secret

Once you have your Exact Panel Width from the results above (e.g., 23.5"), do not measure every single gap with a tape measure during installation. That leads to "cumulative error."

Instead, cut two scrap blocks of wood to exactly 23.5". Place your first stile, then use the spacer blocks to position the next stile. This guarantees perfectly consistent spacing across the entire room without ever touching a tape measure!

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