1. What is Cost per Board Foot?

Cost per board foot is a standard measurement used in the lumber industry to compare prices of different wood products. It represents the cost of one board foot of lumber, allowing for fair comparisons between different sizes and quantities.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• Total Cost — The amount paid for the lumber in dollars
• BF — The total volume of lumber in board feet

Explanation: This calculation standardizes lumber costs regardless of the specific dimensions or quantity purchased.

3. Importance of Cost per Board Foot Calculation

Details: Calculating cost per board foot helps woodworkers, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts make informed purchasing decisions, compare prices between suppliers, and accurately estimate project costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total amount paid for the lumber and the total board footage. Both values must be greater than zero. The calculator will determine the cost per individual board foot.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What exactly is a board foot?
A: A board foot is a volume measurement equal to 1 foot long × 1 foot wide × 1 inch thick (or equivalent).

Q2: How do I calculate board feet?
A: Board feet = (length in feet × width in inches × thickness in inches) ÷ 12.

Q3: Why use cost per board foot instead of cost per piece?
A: Cost per board foot allows comparison between different sized lumber pieces, while cost per piece doesn't account for size differences.

Q4: What's a typical cost per board foot?
A: Prices vary widely by wood species and quality, ranging from $1-$2 for common pine to $10+ for exotic hardwoods.

Q5: Does this account for waste?
A: No, this calculates the raw material cost. For project budgeting, you should account for additional material for cuts and waste.