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Board Footage Calculator

Precision in Every Cut — Master Lumber Volume with Confidence

Enter the exact dimensions of one board to calculate its volume using our board footage calculator. Input validation ensures only realistic values are accepted.

¼" to 12" (0.25" increments)
1" to 36" (0.125" increments)
1 ft to 40 ft (½ ft increments)
1 to 1,000 identical boards

Enter dimensions to calculate board footage

Use the board footage calculator for multiple boards. Add up to 10 different sizes for complex projects.

Add board dimensions to calculate total board footage

Estimate total lumber volume by lineal feet and nominal size using the board footage calculator for entire projects.

Total length of all boards combined
Actual dressed dimensions used

Enter project details to estimate board footage

Board Footage Calculator: Your Essential Lumber Volume Tool

Master material estimation with our professional-grade board footage calculator. Whether you're building a deck, framing a house, or crafting furniture, accurate board footage calculation ensures you buy the right amount of lumber — saving time, money, and waste.

"Mensure bis, seca semel" — Measure twice, cut once.

What Is Board Footage? The Standard Explained

A board foot is the universal unit for measuring lumber volume. It equals:

  • 1 inch thick × 12 inches wide × 12 inches long
  • Or 144 cubic inches of wood
Board Footage = (Thickness × Width × Length) ÷ 144

Our board footage calculator uses this exact formula with real-time validation.

How to Use the Board Footage Calculator

Three powerful modes make our board footage calculator versatile for any job:

Single Board Mode

Perfect for spot checks. Enter actual dimensions and quantity. Input limits prevent errors like 50-foot boards or 100-inch widths.

Multiple Boards Mode

Add up to 10 different board sizes. Ideal for furniture, cabinetry, or mixed-material projects when using the board footage calculator.

Project Estimator Mode

Enter total lineal feet and select nominal size. Uses actual dressed dimensions (e.g., 2x4 = 1.5" × 3.5") for precision.

Why Accurate Board Footage Calculator Results Matter

Precision in board footage calculation delivers real benefits:

  • Cost Savings — Avoid overbuying expensive lumber
  • Less Waste — Reduce scrap and environmental impact
  • Better Planning — Accurate material lists and timelines
  • Professional Quotes — Impress clients with exact estimates

Standard Lumber Sizes & Board Footage Chart

Quick reference when using the board footage calculator:

Nominal Size Actual Size Board Footage per Lineal Foot
1x4 ¾" × 3½" 0.333 BF
1x6 ¾" × 5½" 0.500 BF
2x4 1½" × 3½" 0.667 BF
2x6 1½" × 5½" 1.000 BF
2x12 1½" × 11¼" 2.000 BF

Pro Tips for Using the Board Footage Calculator

  1. Use actual dimensions, not nominal sizes
  2. Round lengths up to nearest foot when ordering
  3. Add 10–15% waste factor for cuts, defects, and errors
  4. Double-check inputs before purchasing
  5. Save your calculations for future reference

Start Using the Board Footage Calculator Today

Eliminate guesswork and build with confidence. Our board footage calculator delivers accuracy, speed, and reliability for every woodworking project.

Calculate Board Footage Now