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Board Foot Formula:
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Board foot is a unit of measurement for lumber volume. One board foot equals the volume of a one-foot length of a board one foot wide and one inch thick. This calculator converts square footage to board feet based on thickness.
The calculator uses the board foot formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts square footage to board feet by accounting for the thickness of the lumber. Since one board foot represents 144 cubic inches (12×12×1), we divide the thickness by 12 to convert square feet to board feet.
Details: Accurate board foot calculation is essential for lumber pricing, inventory management, construction planning, and woodworking projects. It ensures proper material estimation and cost calculation.
Tips: Enter square footage and thickness in inches. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will provide the equivalent board footage.
Q1: What exactly is a board foot?
A: A board foot is a volume measurement equal to 144 cubic inches, typically representing a piece of lumber 12 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 1 inch thick.
Q2: Why divide thickness by 12 in the formula?
A: Since one board foot equals 144 cubic inches (12×12×1), and square feet already account for 144 square inches (12×12), dividing thickness by 12 converts the measurement to board feet.
Q3: Can I use this for different wood species?
A: Yes, the formula works for all wood types. However, actual lumber dimensions may vary due to planning and drying, so consider purchasing slightly more than calculated.
Q4: How accurate is this calculation for rough lumber?
A: The calculation provides theoretical volume. For rough lumber, actual dimensions may differ from nominal dimensions, so adjustments may be needed.
Q5: What's the difference between board feet and square feet?
A: Square feet measure area (length × width), while board feet measure volume (length × width × thickness). Board feet account for thickness while square feet do not.