Lumber Calculator
Estimate board feet and cost for lumber
Estimate the board feet and cost of dimensional lumber for a project, from the board dimensions and quantity.
Estimate total board feet and cost for dimensional lumber.
Board Feet Each
5.33
Total Board Feet
53.33
Estimated Cost
$186.67
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the board thickness and width in inches.
- Enter the length in feet.
- Enter the quantity of boards.
- Enter the price per board foot.
- Review the board feet each, total board feet, and cost.
Why Use This Calculator?
- Pricing lumber for a deck, shed, or framing.
- Comparing board sizes for cost.
- Checking a lumberyard quote.
Real-World Examples
Ten 2×4s, 8 feet long, at $3.50/bd ft
Each 2×4×8 is about 5.33 board feet, so ten boards total roughly 53 board feet — about $187 at $3.50 per board foot.
What's a board foot?
A board foot is a volume equal to 1 foot × 1 foot × 1 inch — 144 cubic inches. The formula is (thickness × width × length) ÷ 12, with thickness and width in inches and length in feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use nominal or actual dimensions?
Use the actual (dressed) dimensions for accurate board-foot totals — a "2×4" is really about 1.5 × 3.5 inches.
Why is lumber priced per board foot?
Board-foot pricing lets a yard charge consistently across different board sizes, since it measures volume rather than length alone.
Does this include waste or offcuts?
No. Add extra length or boards to account for cuts, defects, and mistakes.
Important Disclaimer
Estimates based on the dimensions and price you enter. Lumber prices and actual dimensions vary. Verify with your supplier before purchasing.
Privacy
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