How to use this board foot calculator
- Enter your project dimensions and choose US or metric units.
- Check the product coverage or yield on its packaging. Optional prices are in USD.
- Select Calculate to see your estimate. If you change measurements, calculate again.
- Save the valid result to your project board, copy its link or print it.
The calculation explained
Board feet = thickness (inches) × width (inches) × length (feet) ÷ 12. Multiply by the number of boards and adjust for an optional planning allowance.
Worked example
One nominal 2 × 6 × 8 ft board contains (2 × 6 × 8) ÷ 12 = 8 board feet. Five such boards total 40 board feet before any waste allowance.
What to check before you buy
Hardwood suppliers may quote board footage using rough-sawn sizes; construction lumber is commonly labeled by nominal rather than actual dimensions. Verify the merchant’s pricing method before calculating final cost.
These figures are estimates, not final purchase orders, professional installation instructions or engineering advice. The product packaging and site conditions take precedence over default values. When in doubt, confirm with a qualified contractor, supplier or relevant professional.
Frequently asked questions
What is one board foot?
A board foot is a volume of 144 cubic inches, equivalent to a piece 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide and 12 inches long.
Are nominal and actual lumber dimensions the same?
Not always. Planed lumber is commonly smaller than its nominal label, so confirm the basis used by your supplier.
Does the result include all boards?
Yes. It multiplies the per-board result by the quantity field and optional waste allowance.
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Lumber volume example
Five boards measuring 2 in × 6 in × 8 ft total 40 BF before waste. At $5.50 per BF, the estimated cost is $220.