What Are Linear Feet?
A linear foot (LF) is a one-dimensional measurement of length — simply one foot in a straight line. Materials like lumber, trim, fencing, fabric, and countertops are sold by the linear foot because width is standardized.
Frequently Asked Questions
A linear foot is simply one foot of length in a straight line. It is different from square feet (area) or cubic feet (volume). Used for materials sold by the running length: lumber, trim, fencing, fabric, cable, pipe, and countertops.
Multiply linear feet by material width in feet. Example: 20 LF of 6-inch baseboard = 20 x 0.5 = 10 sq ft. For 25-inch-deep countertop: 15 LF x 2.083 = 31.25 sq ft.
Measure the perimeter of your room in feet and subtract door openings. Add 10% for waste. A 12x14 room has 52 LF perimeter. With two 3-ft door openings (6 LF deducted) = 46 LF + 10% = about 51 LF.
A 2x4 stud is typically 8 LF (or 92.5 inches for wall framing). Bundles vary — 2x4x8s often come in bundles of 294 pieces (= 2,352 LF). Always check your supplier.
Measure each wall from corner to corner. Add all walls together for total perimeter. Subtract any walls where molding is not installed. Add 15% for cuts and mitered corners.
Linear feet measure only length. Board feet measure lumber volume: 1 board foot = 1 ft x 1 ft x 1 inch. A 2x4 at 8 LF = 5.33 board feet (8 x 2 x 4 / 12 = 5.33). Most dimensional lumber pricing is per linear foot, not board foot.