how to calculate board feet

To calculate board feet, use a simple volume formula for lumber:

• If all dimensions are in inches:
  • Board feet BFBFBF = (Thickness in inches × Width in inches × Length in inches) ÷ 144.

* Example: A board 2 in thick, 6 in wide, 8 ft long. First convert length to inches: 8 ft × 12 = 96 in.
  * BF=2×6×96÷144=1152÷144=8BF=2×6×96÷144=1152÷144=8BF=2×6×96÷144=1152÷144=8 board feet.

• If length is in feet and width/thickness in inches:
  • Board feet BFBFBF = (Thickness in inches × Width in inches × Length in feet) ÷ 12.

* Same example, using feet for length:
  * BF=2×6×8÷12=96÷12=8BF=2×6×8÷12=96÷12=8BF=2×6×8÷12=96÷12=8 board feet.

Key tips:

• Always keep units consistent (do not mix inches and feet without using the correct divisor 144 or 12).

• Board feet represent volume: one board foot equals a piece 1 in thick × 12 in wide × 12 in long (144 cubic inches).