Calculate board feet, linear feet, and cost for lumber projects. Supports common dimensional lumber sizes.
Board Foot = (Thickness × Width × Length) / 144, where all measurements are in inches except length in feet: (T" × W" × L') / 12.
| Nominal | Actual | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 2×4 | 1.5×3.5" | Framing, studs |
| 2×6 | 1.5×5.5" | Floor joists, walls |
| 2×8 | 1.5×7.25" | Headers, floor joists |
| 2×10 | 1.5×9.25" | Joists, beams |
| 2×12 | 1.5×11.25" | Ridge boards, long spans |
Nominal sizes (2×4) refer to the rough-sawn dimension before drying and planing. The finished (actual) size is smaller — a 2×4 is really 1.5×3.5 inches.
One board foot equals a piece 1 inch thick × 12 inches wide × 12 inches long (144 cubic inches). It is the standard unit for pricing hardwood and specialty lumber.
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Open →Enter the number, size, and length of lumber pieces needed. The calculator estimates board feet and cost. Supports common dimensions (2×4, 2×6, 2×8, 4×4, etc.).
Board Feet = (Thickness × Width × Length) / 144 (all in inches). Note: "2×4" actual dimensions are 1.5×3.5 inches. Total cost = Board Feet × Price per Board Foot.
Twenty 2×4×8ft studs: each = 1.5 × 3.5 × 96 / 144 = 3.5 board feet. Total = 70 board feet. At $0.85/bd ft = $59.50.
Lumber sizes are nominal — a "2×4" is actually 1.5" × 3.5". Check for straight grain and minimal knots. Pressure-treated (PT) lumber is required for ground contact and outdoor use. Let PT lumber dry before staining.