Board Foot Calculator

What is a Board Foot?

A board foot is a unit of volume commonly used in the lumber industry. It represents the volume of a one-inch thick board that is one foot wide and one foot long. In other words, one board foot equals 144 cubic inches of wood.

This measurement is crucial for estimating the amount of wood needed for various projects, from small DIY tasks to large-scale construction. It helps in calculating costs, planning material purchases, and managing inventory efficiently.

How to Calculate Board Feet

The formula for calculating board feet is:

Board Feet = (Length in inches × Width in inches × Thickness in inches × Number of pieces) ÷ 144

Our calculator simplifies this process by allowing you to input measurements in various units and automatically converting them to the appropriate values for the calculation.

Common Uses of Board Foot Calculations

• Estimating lumber needs for construction projects
• Pricing wood for sale or purchase
• Planning furniture-making projects
• Calculating shipping costs for lumber
• Managing wood inventory for businesses
• Budgeting for home renovation projects

Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Always measure to the nearest 1/4 inch for length and width
• For thickness, round up to the next 1/4 inch
• Include a waste factor (typically 10-15%) for cutting and trimming
• For rough-cut lumber, add 1/4 inch to each dimension before calculating
• Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy

📋 How to Use

1. Enter the length, width, and thickness of your lumber.
2. Select the appropriate unit for each measurement.
3. Specify the number of pieces.
4. Add a waste percentage if needed.
5. Optionally, enter the price per board foot.
6. Click "Calculate" to see the results.

💡 Why Use This Calculator?

• Accurately estimate material needs
• Reduce waste in your projects
• Budget effectively for lumber costs
• Compare prices between suppliers
• Plan your wood storage efficiently