Board Foot Calculator

Add a row per cut size. Board feet = (thickness in × width in × length ft ÷ 12) × quantity.

Code notes follow the general IRC. Local codes amend it, so check your local code.

Row 1

Nominal size

Thickness (in, nominal)Width (in, nominal)Length (ft)QuantitySpecies (optional)$ / board ft (optional)

On concrete or ground contact

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Nominal vs actual dimensions

Nominal	Actual (in)
1×2	0.75 × 1.5
1×4	0.75 × 3.5
1×6	0.75 × 5.5
1×8	0.75 × 7.25
2×4	1.5 × 3.5
2×6	1.5 × 5.5
2×8	1.5 × 7.25
2×10	1.5 × 9.25
2×12	1.5 × 11.25
4×4	3.5 × 3.5

What is a board foot?

A board foot is a volume unit equal to 144 cubic inches. The formula is thickness in inches times width in inches times length in feet, divided by 12, times the number of pieces.

Should I use nominal or actual size?

Use nominal for ordering and pricing. A 2x4 is sold and priced as a 2x4 even though the dressed size is 1.5 x 3.5 inches. Use actual size only when you are checking real fit.