What is a board foot?

A board foot equals 144 cubic inches — a piece of lumber 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long.

How do I calculate board feet?

Multiply thickness in inches by width in inches by length in feet, then divide by 12.

Should I use nominal or actual dimensions?

Use nominal dimensions for dimensional softwood (2x4, 2x6, etc.). Use rough actual dimensions for hardwoods, sized in quarters of an inch (4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4).

What does 4/4 mean for hardwood?

Hardwood thickness is sold in quarters of an inch. 4/4 equals one inch rough thickness, 8/4 equals two inches, 12/4 equals three inches.

How do I convert linear feet to board feet?

Board feet equals thickness in inches times width in inches times linear feet, divided by 12.

Big Ideas, Real Impact.

Driven by curiosity and built on purpose, this is where bold thinking meets thoughtful execution. Let’s create something meaningful together.

Rocky Mountain Forest Products

Board Foot Calculator

Common sizes

Dimensions

Thickness (in)

Width (in)

Longitud (pies)

+ in

Quantity

Optional

Price per BF ($)

Waste % 10% framing · 15% hardwood · 20% character