Lumber Calculator (Board Feet)

Enter your lumber dimensions and quantity to calculate total board feet, then compare costs across common lumber sizes to find the best value for your project.

Thickness (in, nominal)

Width (in, nominal)

Length (ft)

Number of Pieces

Waste Factor (%)

Pricing (edit to match local rates)

2x4x8 ($)

2x6x8 ($)

2x8x8 ($)

2x10x8 ($)

2x12x8 ($)

Total Board Feet

88.0 BF

8.00 BF/piece x 11 pcs (incl. 10% waste)

Best Value

2x4x8

17 pcs · $76.50

Purchase Option	Quantity	Est. Cost
2x4x8 (5.333333333333333 BF/pc @ $0.84/BF)Best value	17 pcs	$76.50
2x6x8 (8 BF/pc @ $0.94/BF)	11 pcs	$82.50
2x8x8 (10.666666666666666 BF/pc @ $0.94/BF)	9 pcs	$90.00
2x10x8 (13.333333333333334 BF/pc @ $1.05/BF)	7 pcs	$98.00
2x12x8 (16 BF/pc @ $1.13/BF)	6 pcs	$108.00

Best value: 2x4x8 at $76.50Smaller lumber sizes have a lower cost per board foot, making them more economical when your design allows flexibility. Wider boards cost more per BF but reduce labor for sheathing and decking. Always compare $/BF alongside your structural requirements.

This is a material estimate only. Board foot calculations use nominal (not actual) dimensions per industry standard. Verify prices with your local lumber yard before ordering.