Board Feet vs Linear Feet: What's the Difference and When to Use Each
This is one of the most common questions I get from people buying lumber for the first time. The short answer: board feet measure volume, linear feet measure length. But the details matter, especially when you're trying to compare prices.
Quick Answer
Board feet measure the volume of lumber (thickness × width × length ÷ 144). Linear feet measure only length. Rough lumber and hardwood are priced by board feet. Trim and dimensional lumber are priced by linear feet.
| Feature | Board Feet | Linear Feet |
|---|---|---|
| What it measures | Volume (3D) | Length only (1D) |
| Formula | (T × W × L) ÷ 144 | Just the length |
| Used for | Rough lumber, hardwood, slabs | Trim, moulding, dimensional lumber |
| Pricing | Per board foot | Per foot of length |
| Accounts for thickness | Yes | No |
| Accounts for width | Yes | No |
| Common in | Sawmills, hardwood dealers | Hardware stores, lumber yards |
Board Feet
- ✓Buying rough sawn hardwood from a sawmill
- ✓Pricing lumber by volume
- ✓Comparing cost between different thicknesses
- ✓Estimating material for furniture projects
Linear Feet
- ✓Buying trim, baseboard, or crown moulding
- ✓Buying dimensional lumber (2x4, 2x6) at a hardware store
- ✓Measuring for shelving or fencing
- ✓When width and thickness are standardized
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert board feet to linear feet?+
Yes. Multiply board feet by 144, then divide by width in inches, then divide by thickness in inches. The result is linear feet. For example, 10 BF of 1x6 material: 10 × 144 ÷ 6 ÷ 1 = 240 linear feet.
Why do sawmills use board feet instead of linear feet?+
Because rough lumber comes in many widths and thicknesses. A 1x12 board and a 2x6 board might be the same length, but they contain different volumes of wood. Board feet capture that difference.
Is board foot pricing cheaper than linear foot pricing?+
Not necessarily. They're measuring different things. To compare prices, convert both to the same unit. Sometimes linear foot pricing is cheaper for standardized sizes. Board foot pricing is more transparent for rough lumber.