What is a board foot?
A board foot is a lumber volume measurement equal to a board that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide and 1 foot long.
Board foot example
A board measuring 1 inch thick, 8 inches wide and 8 feet long contains approximately 5.33 board feet.
How to estimate lumber cost
Multiply total board feet by the price per board foot. If the price is 4.50 per board foot and the project requires 10 board feet, the estimated material cost is 45.
Lumber can be sold using nominal dimensions that differ from its actual finished size. Use the dimensions appropriate for your supplier and calculation.
Frequently asked questions
How is a board foot calculated?
Multiply thickness in inches by width in inches and length in feet, then divide by 12.
Is a board foot the same as a square foot?
No. A board foot measures lumber volume, while a square foot measures area.
Can I calculate several identical boards?
Yes. Enter the number of boards in the quantity field.
Can I estimate the cost too?
Yes. Enter a price per board foot to calculate an estimated total material cost.
Using this calculator effectively
A board foot is a lumber-volume unit equal to a board 12 inches long, 12 inches wide and 1 inch thick. This calculator is useful for comparing rough lumber quantities and estimating cost when pricing is given per board foot.
Common uses
- Calculating lumber volume for woodworking projects.
- Comparing boards of different widths, thicknesses and lengths.
- Estimating material cost from a price per board foot.
Tips for a better estimate
- Use the actual thickness and width basis used by the lumber seller.
- Confirm whether dimensions are nominal or surfaced dimensions.
- Add a project-specific allowance for defects, grain selection and cutting waste.
Helpful guides
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