Total Board Feet
11.0
Pieces Needed
2
Waste
1.0 bf
Estimated Cost
$39
2
1.0 bf
$39
11.0
Estimate includes 10% waste allowance for cuts
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Get free quotes from licensed contractors in your area
Showing results for your area
Inputs
Result
Board feet = (1.5 × 5.5 × 10) / 12 = 6.875 bf. With 10% waste: 6.875 × 1.1 = 7.5625, displayed as 7.6 bf. Pieces = ceil(10/8) = 2. Cost = 7.6 × $3.50 = $26.60.
Inputs
Result
Board feet = (1.5 × 9.25 × 20) / 12 = 23.125 bf. With 10% waste: 23.125 × 1.1 = 25.4375, displayed as 25.4 bf. Pieces = ceil(20/12) = 2. Cost = 25.4 × $4.00 = $101.75.
Board feet = (Thickness × Width × Length) / 12. For example, a 2×4×8 = (1.5" × 3.5" × 96") / 12 = 5.25 board feet. Note: nominal sizes (2×4) are larger than actual dimensions (1.5" × 3.5").
A board foot is a unit of volume equal to 144 cubic inches (12" × 12" × 1"). It's the standard unit for pricing lumber. One board foot = 1/12 cubic foot.
Nominal size is the name (2×4, 2×6). Actual dimensions are smaller: 2×4 = 1.5" × 3.5", 2×6 = 1.5" × 5.5", 2×8 = 1.5" × 7.25". Always use actual dimensions for calculations.
| Nominal Size | Actual Size (in) | Board Feet per 8 ft | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2×4 | 1.5 × 3.5 | 3.5 bf | Wall studs, framing |
| 2×6 | 1.5 × 5.5 | 5.5 bf | Floor joists, rafters |
| 2×8 | 1.5 × 7.25 | 7.25 bf | Headers, beams |
| 2×10 | 1.5 × 9.25 | 9.25 bf | Ridge boards, headers |
| 2×12 | 1.5 × 11.25 | 11.25 bf | Long-span joists |
| 4×4 | 3.5 × 3.5 | 8.17 bf | Posts, columns |
Add 10-15% waste for cuts, defects, and errors. For complex projects with many cuts, use 15%. For simple projects, 10% is usually sufficient.
Read our guide
Read our guide
Read our guide
Calculate concrete needed
Calculate paint needed
Calculate flooring materials
Plan your construction project
Last Updated: Mar 26, 2026
This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.
