The nominal-vs-actual puzzle is built in. A 2x4 is actually 1.5 x 3.5 inches because it planes down from its rough-sawn size; the calculator uses nominal dimensions because that is how lumber is priced, but lets you switch to actual for project maths.
Calculator
Formula used
1 board foot = 144 cu in = thickness(in) × width(in) × length(ft) ÷ 12
How to use the Board Foot Calculator
- Type the nominal thickness, width and length of one piece.
- Set the number of pieces in the order.
- Add a per-board-foot price to see the cost rollup.
- Read the board feet, cubic feet and total.
About this tool
The Board Foot Calculator is built for speed and accuracy: every calculation runs in your browser, so your data never leaves your device and the result updates as you type. It works equally well on a phone, a tablet or a desktop, and it is free to use as many times as you like.
Common use cases
- Pricing a hardwood order before talking to the yard.
- Comparing nominal 4/4 vs 5/4 lumber.
- Sizing a small project to a single board.
- Working out scrap yield for a cutting list.
Tips for the best result
- Use the latest figures you have - even a small change in rate or term can shift the outcome by hundreds.
- For annual figures, divide by 12 to get a monthly number you can compare with the result.
- Bookmark this page and revisit the calculation as the inputs change.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a 2x4 not really 2x4?
Lumber is sold by its rough-sawn (nominal) size but planed smooth before sale. A 2x4 is actually 1.5 x 3.5 inches. The calculator uses nominal for pricing and shows the actual in the detail.
How do I convert to cubic metres?
Multiply cubic feet by 0.0283. 1 board foot equals about 2.36 litres.
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