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Board Foot Calculator

Quickly estimate the total board feet and the cost per foot of your lumber for a project

This calculator helps you calculate the total board feet of lumber based on thickness, width, length, and quantity. Download a copy of our free board foot calculator and use it on the go today!

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Frequently asked questions

What is a board foot?

A board foot is a unit of volume used to measure lumber. It measures volume — not surface area — which is why both width and thickness are required in the calculation.

How does the calculator determine total board feet?

The calculator uses the standard industry formula:

Board feet = (Number of Pieces x Length x Width x Thickness)/12

What are the total board feet and the cost per board foot? (with example)

If I have 2 pieces of lumber, each measuring 8 feet long, 4 inches wide, and 2 inches thick, and the total cost is $65.

Step 1: Calculate Total Board Feet

Use the standard board foot formula:

Board Feet = ( Number of Pieces x Length x Width x Thickness) / 12

= ( 2x 8 x 4 x 2) / 12

= 10.67 Board Feet

Step 2: Calculate Cost per Board Foot

Cost per Board Foot = Total Cost / Total Board Feet

= 65 / 10.67 -6.09

Total Board Feet: 10.67

Cost per Board Foot: $6.09