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Free Board Foot Calculator
Convert lumber dimensions into board feet and estimate cost.
What is the Board Foot Calculator?
Convert lumber dimensions into board feet and estimate cost.
One board foot is thickness in inches times width in inches times length in feet, divided by 12. The calculator multiplies by the number of boards, adds waste, and also gives cubic feet, cubic metres and cost at your price per board foot.
Home and building jobs are easier to price when you know how much material you really need. A quick estimate also helps you avoid buying too little or too much.
How to use the Board Foot Calculator
Using the board foot calculator takes a minute or two. Your entries are saved in this browser, so you can come back later and carry on.
Step 1
Enter the measurements of the area you are working on.
Step 2
Read the amount of material needed, including a waste allowance where relevant.
Step 3
Round up when you buy, and check the figures with your supplier.
Tips for better results
Use the nominal size lumberyards bill by, not the planed size, if they price on nominal dimensions. Add waste for defects and trimmed ends.
Add 5 to 10 percent for waste, cuts and mistakes.
Measure twice, order once, and check quantities with your supplier.
Privacy and where your data goes
Everything you type into the board foot calculator stays on your own device. Zapxa does not receive your numbers or documents. If you clear your browser data, your saved entries will be removed, so download a PDF of anything you want to keep.
Frequently asked questions
What is a board foot?
A board foot is the volume of a board 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide and 12 inches long, or 144 cubic inches.
Do I use nominal or actual dimensions?
It depends on the supplier, so ask which dimensions they bill on. The calculator uses the thickness, width and length you enter, so enter the size they quote.
Is the board foot calculator free?
Yes. It is free to use with no signup, no watermark and no usage limits.
Is my data private?
Yes. Your inputs are processed in your browser and saved only in its local storage. They are not uploaded to our servers.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes. Zapxa works on phones, tablets and desktops. Use the print button or download a PDF to keep a copy.
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