Board Foot Calculator

Calculate board feet for lumber pricing from thickness, width, and length.

How Does This Calculator Work?

One board foot equals a piece of wood 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 1 foot long (144 cubic inches). The formula multiplies thickness (in) × width (in) × length (ft), then divides by 12 to get board feet.

Lumber, especially hardwood, is often priced per board foot rather than per linear foot. This calculator converts a board's dimensions into board feet so you can compare pricing and estimate costs accurately.

Example Calculation

Hardwood Board Example

A board 1 in thick, 6 in wide, 8 ft long.

(1 × 6 × 8) ÷ 12 = 4 board feet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a board foot?

A board foot is a unit of lumber volume equal to a piece of wood 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches (1 foot) long — regardless of the actual shape of the board.

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