Inputs
Advanced Staggering, Optimization & Rules
Rules enforced by calculation only — no code references needed.
Project Presets
Presets are stored in your browser (localStorage) and tied to this device.
Results
| Metric | Value | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Enter inputs and click Calculate. | ||
Tip
Rows are counted across the dimension perpendicular to channel run.
Example Data Table
Preset scenarios for quick reference. Load a row to the form and recalc.
| Scenario | Length | Width | Run | OC | Stock | Waste% | Perimeter | Rows | Pieces | Splices | Hangers | Linear | Load |
|---|
Formulas Used
- Rows:
rows = ⌊cross_dim / spacing⌋ + 1(includes far-edge row when exact multiple). - Pieces per row:
ppr = ⌈run_dim / stock_len⌉. Splices:splices = rows × (ppr − 1). - Total pieces:
tp = rows × ppr. Waste:tpw = ⌈tp × (1 + waste%)⌉. - Perimeter:
perim_len = 2 × (L + W),perim_pieces = ⌈perim_len / stock_len⌉when included. - Hangers (optional):
hangers = rows × ⌈run_dim / hanger_spacing⌉. - Linear footage / length:
LF = rows × run_dim + (include_perimeter ? perim_len : 0). - Weight:
total_weight = LF × weight_per_length. - Stagger offset: for a row offset
δ, first piece isstock_len − δthen full lengths, keeping seams shifted byδ.
Seam Map & Rule Checks
Shows first 12 rows. Violations count seams closer than minimum offsets between rows or across three rows.
| Row | Seams (position along run) |
|---|---|
| No data yet. | |
| Check | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Run a calculation to see checks. | ||
Cut Plan (Greedy Optimization)
Generates a bar-cutting plan for sub-stock pieces, pooling offcuts and honoring a minimum piece length. Full-length pieces use one stock bar each without waste.
| Bin (stock bar) | Segments (ft) | Used (ft) | Offcut (ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| No plan yet. | |||
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| No summary yet. | |
How to Use
- Choose units and enter room length and width.
- Select channel run direction, spacing, and stock length.
- Set waste allowance; toggle perimeter trims if required.
- (Advanced) Choose a stagger pattern and minimum seam offsets.
- Enable optimization to produce a suggested cut plan.
- Save a project preset to reuse settings later.
- Click Calculate, then export CSV or PDF.
FAQs
Many ceilings use 16 in or 24 in on-center. For metric projects, 300–600 mm is common. Confirm with local codes, acoustic needs, and drywall manufacturer guidance.
Staggering shifts seam positions using a starter piece shorter than stock. Piece count stays similar, but seam alignment improves. The tool flags two-row and three-row separation violations.
Many crews keep at least 24 in separation between adjacent-row splices, and 36 in across three rows. Adjust to project specifications and inspector preferences.
A greedy bin-packing strategy groups sub-stock segments onto stock bars, reusing offcuts that meet a minimum usable length. It estimates bars used, offcuts remaining, and waste in feet/meters.
Yes. Select Fixed offset and set an offset length. Alternate rows use the offset, creating a repeating seam pattern for inspection clarity.
Switch to Metric to enter meters for room dimensions, millimeters for spacing, and meters for stock length. Outputs convert automatically and weight uses kg/m if selected.