#
Thickness (in)
Width (in)
Length (ft)
Qty
Board Feet
Price per Board Foot:
$
(optional — for cost estimate)
Per-Board Breakdown
| # | Dimensions | Qty | Board Feet | Cost |
|---|
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What Is a Board Foot?
A board foot is a unit of lumber volume equal to a piece of wood that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long — or any combination of dimensions that equals 144 cubic inches.
Board Feet = (Thickness" × Width" × Length') ÷ 12
Example: A 2" × 6" × 10 ft board = (2 × 6 × 10) ÷ 12 = 10 board feet
Note: Use nominal dimensions (2×4, 2×6, etc.) — not actual dimensions — when buying lumber.
Note: Use nominal dimensions (2×4, 2×6, etc.) — not actual dimensions — when buying lumber.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between board feet and linear feet?
A linear foot is simply the length of a board regardless of its dimensions — 1 linear foot = 1 foot of length. A board foot accounts for all three dimensions (thickness × width × length) to give a volumetric measure. Lumber is priced in board feet for hardwoods and specialty lumber, while dimensional framing lumber (2×4, 2×6) is typically sold by the linear foot or in standard lengths.
Do I use nominal or actual dimensions?
When buying lumber at a store, use nominal dimensions (2×4, 2×6, 1×8, etc.) in the board foot formula — these are the labeled dimensions, not the actual milled dimensions. For example, a 2×4 actually measures 1.5" × 3.5", but you calculate board feet using 2 × 4. Hardwood lumber from sawmills is usually sold with actual dimensions since it has not been surfaced to standard sizes.
How much does lumber cost per board foot?
Prices vary widely by species, grade, and market conditions. Softwoods (pine, spruce, fir) typically run $1–$4 per board foot. Popular hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry run $5–$12 per board foot. Exotic hardwoods like walnut, teak, or ebony can range from $15 to $50+ per board foot. Prices have been volatile since 2020 — always check current local prices before budgeting a project.
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