Board Foot Calculator
Calculate board feet for a lumber order. Enter the thickness, width, and length of a board and how many pieces — add a price per board foot for a total.
3D boards · drag to rotate
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Check it outWhat a board foot is
A board foot is a volume unit for lumber: 144 cubic inches, or a piece 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long. The formula is thickness × width × length (all in inches) divided by 144. Hardwood dealers usually price by the board foot, so this is how you turn a cut list into a budget.
How it’s calculated
Board feet = thickness × width × length (all in inches) ÷ 144 × number of boards.
Results update as you type and are estimates, not professional advice — verify important decisions with a qualified professional.
Worked example
A 1x6 board 96 inches long is 4 board feet; multiply by price per board foot for cost.
Common mistakes
- Entering length in feet instead of inches.
- Confusing board feet (volume) with linear feet (length).
Where it is used
- Pricing a hardwood lumber order.
- Turning a cut list into a budget.
Frequently asked questions
Is length in inches or feet?
This tool uses inches for all three dimensions. A standard 8-foot board is 96 inches.
Does board foot equal linear foot?
No. A linear foot measures length only; a board foot measures volume, accounting for thickness and width too.
How should I handle rough vs. surfaced lumber?
Rough lumber is measured at full dimensions. Surfaced boards are slightly smaller, but pricing is typically based on the rough size.