Work out the board feet of lumber and the total cost.
Calculated instantly in your browser.
How do you calculate board feet of lumber?
Board feet = thickness (in) × width (in) × length (in) ÷ 144, since one board foot equals 144 cubic inches. Use the nominal thickness and width. For example, five boards of 2 in × 6 in × 8 ft are 8 board feet each — 40 board feet, about 180 at 4.50 per board foot. Hardwood is usually priced by the board foot.
Understanding your result
Use the nominal thickness and width. Hardwood lumber is usually sold by the board foot, so this is handy for budgeting a project.
Formula and method
Board feet = thickness (in) × width (in) × length (in) ÷ 144. One board foot equals 144 cubic inches.
Worked example
Five boards of 2 in × 6 in × 8 ft are 8 board feet each — 40 board feet, about 180 at 4.50 per board foot.
How to use this tool
- Enter the thickness and width in inches.
- Enter the length and choose feet or inches.
- Add the quantity and an optional price, then press Calculate.
About the Board Feet Calculator
The Board Feet Calculator measures the volume of lumber in board feet — the standard way hardwood is priced — and totals the cost.
Explore all Productivity tools
Frequently asked questions
What is a board foot?
A board foot is a piece of wood 12 inches wide, 12 inches long and 1 inch thick — 144 cubic inches of lumber.