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Board Feet Calculator

Measure Twice, Cut Once — Accurately Calculate Lumber Volume

Enter the dimensions of a single board to calculate its volume in board feet. Perfect for quick estimates when calculating board feet for individual pieces.

Minimum 0.25" (1/4"), Maximum 12"
Minimum 1", Maximum 36"
Minimum 1 ft, Maximum 40 ft
How many identical boards?

Enter dimensions to calculate board feet

Calculate board feet for multiple boards with different dimensions. Add up to 10 entries for accurate project planning.

Add board dimensions to calculate total board feet

Estimate total lumber needs for your entire project by entering lineal feet and nominal size when calculating board feet in bulk.

Total length of all boards combined
Actual dimensions used for calculation

Enter project details to estimate board feet

Calculating Board Feet: The Essential Lumber Measurement Tool

Whether you're a professional contractor, woodworker, or DIY enthusiast, calculating board feet is a fundamental skill for accurate material estimation. Our board feet calculator eliminates guesswork and ensures you purchase exactly what you need — no more, no less.

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

What Is a Board Foot? Understanding the Standard

A board foot is the standard unit of measure for lumber volume in North America. It represents a piece of wood that is:

  • 1 inch thick
  • 12 inches wide
  • 12 inches long

Or any combination that equals 144 cubic inches of wood.

Board Feet = (Thickness × Width × Length) ÷ 144

How to Use Our Board Feet Calculator

Our calculating board feet tool offers three modes to match your workflow:

Single Board Mode

Perfect for quick checks. Enter thickness, width, length, and quantity. The calculator instantly computes total board feet with input validation to prevent errors.

Multiple Boards Mode

Add up to 10 different board sizes. Ideal for furniture projects, decking, or any job requiring varied lumber dimensions when calculating board feet.

Project Estimator Mode

Enter total lineal feet and select nominal size (e.g., 2x4, 2x6). Uses actual dressed dimensions for precise board feet calculation.

Why Accurate Calculating Board Feet Matters

Proper calculating board feet prevents costly mistakes:

  • Save Money — Avoid over-purchasing lumber
  • Reduce Waste — Minimize scrap and environmental impact
  • Improve Planning — Better project timelines and budgets
  • Professional Results — Accurate quotes and material lists

Common Lumber Sizes and Board Feet Chart

Use this quick reference when calculating board feet:

Nominal Size Actual Size Board Feet 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 Calculating Board Feet

  1. Always use actual dimensions, not nominal sizes
  2. Round up length to the nearest foot when ordering
  3. Add 10-15% waste factor for cuts and defects
  4. Double-check measurements before cutting
  5. Use our calculator weekly to track material usage

Start Calculating Board Feet Accurately Today

Eliminate guesswork from your woodworking projects. Our board feet calculator delivers precision, speed, and reliability for every job.

Calculate Board Feet Now