Board Foot Calculator
Calculate board feet for rough lumber using thickness, width, length, and quantity.
Planning estimate only. Confirm supplier quantities, local code requirements, and field measurements before ordering or construction.
Reviewed September 6, 2026Runs in your browser
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How this calculator works
Board feet = thickness(in) × width(in) × length(in) ÷ 144 × quantity.
Worked example
Ten 1 × 8 × 96 in boards equal about 53.33 board feet.
Sources & assumptions
The formula follows the conventional 144-cubic-inch board foot definition described in NIST Handbook 130. Lumber may be sold using nominal rather than dressed dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Why divide by 144?
One board foot is a volume of 144 cubic inches, traditionally 1 in × 12 in × 12 in.
Should I use nominal or actual dimensions?
Use the dimensions your lumber dealer prices by. Rough lumber is commonly sold using nominal thickness conventions.