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MaterialNest

Formula methodology

Formula changelog

Current calculator versions, what changed, and how saved estimates stay understandable when formulas are updated.

Transparent variables, rounding decisions, and scope limits for every result.

Last reviewed: August 14, 2026

This changelog explains published calculation behavior that can change a saved estimate. Copy, layout, or diagram-only edits do not change a formula version unless they also change the calculation.

Current formula versions

  • Baluster spacing 1.0.0: equal-end-gap count and spacing formula.
  • Railing posts 2.0.0: section geometry, shared endpoints, per-section openings, and per-run post spacing.
  • Deck railing 3.0.0: section-aware unspliced rail cuts, deterministic offcut reuse, actual post-to-post clear rail length, distinct top/bottom stock, and a waste-based whole-piece minimum.
  • Fence posts 2.0.0: layout topology, shared endpoints, individual gate placement, and per-run spacing.
  • Chain-link fence 2.0.0: shared fence geometry, gate deductions, bottom wire, independent gate prices, and optional concrete integration.
  • Post concrete 1.1.0: round or rectangular post displacement plus explicit net and waste outputs.
  • Wood fence materials 1.0.0.
  • Deck boards and fasteners 1.0.0.
  • Paver patio materials 1.0.0.
  • User-designed yard-drain material takeoff 1.1.0: quantity-only scope, explicit gravel policy, attributable product evidence, pipe-stock and fabric allocation, and legacy 1.0.0 review before recalculation.

Understanding formula updates

A patch version corrects the calculation while keeping the same documented input meaning and materially equivalent result. A minor version adds compatible input or result behavior. A major version changes input meaning, layout rules, rounding order, or quantities enough that a saved estimate may need review.

Saved estimates are never changed automatically. When an update is compatible, you can choose to recalculate using your measurements. When an update needs review, the earlier inputs and estimate remain available until you complete the current form.

Deck railing 2.0.0 to 3.0.0

Version 2.0.0 used the total run length and could undercount stock when rails must end at every post. Version 3.0.0 calculates each clear post-to-post cut, reuses only offcuts that fit a complete cut, and does not use stock shorter than a required span. Your inputs remain compatible, but the purchase quantity can change. A saved 2.0.0 estimate stays available until you choose to recalculate it.