Board Feet Calculator

Formula

Board feet per linear foot:  1×4=0.333  1×6=0.5  1×8=0.667  1×10=0.833  1×12=1.0  2×4=0.667  2×6=1.0  2×8=1.333  2×10=1.667  2×12=2.0  4×4=1.333  4×6=2.0totalBf = ⌈length × bfPerLf × (1 + waste/100) × 10⌉ / 10

Parameters

Lumber Size

Nominal dimensions with bf/lf conversion factor.

Waste %

Extra for defects, cuts, job-site losses.

Results

Board Feet

Total bf to order (1 bf = 1 ft × 1 ft × 1 in).

Example

bfPerLf for 2×10 = 1.667totalBf = ⌈200 × 1.667 × 1.10 × 10⌉ / 10 = 366.7 bf

Common Use Cases

• Deck framing and joists
• Fence boards and posts
• Custom millwork and trim
• Structural beam calculations

Notes

• Board foot is based on nominal dimensions, not actual.
• Hardwood is sold by bf, softwood by linear foot or piece.