Calculate lumber volume and cost
Board feet measure lumber volume. One board foot = 144 cubic inches (1" thick × 12" wide × 12" long).
Formula: Board Feet = (Thickness × Width × Length) ÷ 12
Example: A 2×4×8' board
(1.5" × 3.5" × 96") ÷ 12 = 42 board inches ÷ 12 = 3.5 board feet
Actual vs Nominal: A "2×4" is actually 1.5" × 3.5". Always use actual dimensions for calculations.
Common sizes:
• 1×6×8' = 4 BF
• 2×4×8' = 5.33 BF
• 2×6×10' = 10 BF
• 4×4×8' = 10.67 BF
Pricing: Hardwood and rough lumber are sold by board foot. Prices vary: pine $1-2/BF, oak $4-8/BF, walnut $8-15/BF.
How to use: Enter actual dimensions (not nominal), quantity, and price per board foot. Calculator shows total board feet and cost.