Linear Foot to Board Foot Converter - Free BDFT Calculator

Convert linear feet to board feet (BDFT) instantly. Free bidirectional calculator for lumber projects. Enter linear measurements and lumber dimensions for accurate board foot conversions.

Last updated: 1/26/2025

Conversion Direction

Linear → Board Feet

Linear Feet

ft

Width (inches)

in

Thickness (inches)

in

Conversion Results

Board Feet:0.00 BF

Formula:

Board Feet = Linear Feet × Width × Thickness ÷ 12

Example Conversions:

  • • 10 ft of 2×4 lumber = 6.67 BF
  • • 8 ft of 1×6 lumber = 4.00 BF
  • • 12 ft of 2×8 lumber = 16.00 BF

How to Convert Linear Feet to Board Feet

Converting between linear feet and board feet is essential for lumber calculations. Our bidirectional converter makes these conversions quick and accurate.

1

Know Your Lumber Dimensions

Identify the width and thickness of your lumber in inches. For example, a 2×4 board is actually 1.5" × 3.5" in finished dimensions, but use nominal dimensions (2" × 4") for calculations.

2

Choose Conversion Direction

Select whether you're converting linear feet to board feet (for volume calculations) or board feet to linear feet (to determine required length from known volume).

3

Get Instant Results

Enter your measurements and get immediate conversion results. Perfect for material planning, cost estimation, and project calculations.

Conversion Formulas

Linear to Board Feet:
Board Feet = Linear Feet × Width (in) × Thickness (in) ÷ 12
Board Feet to Linear:
Linear Feet = (Board Feet × 12) ÷ (Width (in) × Thickness (in))

These formulas provide accurate conversions between linear measurements and board foot volume for any lumber dimensions.

Why Use Our Linear Foot to Board Foot Converter

Our bidirectional converter simplifies lumber calculations for woodworkers, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts.

Bidirectional Conversion

Convert both ways - linear feet to board feet or board feet to linear feet, depending on your project needs.

Material Planning

Plan lumber purchases accurately by converting between length measurements and volume calculations for precise material estimation.

Instant Calculations

Get immediate results as you type, with clear formula displays showing exactly how the conversion is calculated.

Any Lumber Size

Works with any lumber dimensions - from standard 2×4s to custom milled boards with fractional measurements.

Project Cost Estimation

Essential for cost calculations since lumber is priced by board feet but measured by linear feet at the job site.

Professional Accuracy

Provides precise calculations needed for professional construction and woodworking projects with detailed formula explanations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you convert linear feet to board feet?

To convert linear feet to board feet, multiply linear feet by the width (inches) and thickness (inches), then divide by 12. Formula: BDFT = Linear Feet × Width × Thickness ÷ 12. For example, 10 linear feet of 2×4 lumber = 10 × 4 × 2 ÷ 12 = 6.67 board feet.

What's the difference between linear feet and board feet?

Linear feet measures only length along one dimension, while board feet measures volume (length × width × thickness). Linear feet tells you how long a board is, while board feet tells you how much wood volume you have for pricing and material calculations.

Can I convert board feet back to linear feet?

Yes! Our calculator works both ways. To convert board feet to linear feet, divide board feet by the cross-sectional area: Linear Feet = (Board Feet × 12) ÷ (Width × Thickness). This is useful when you know how much lumber volume you need but want to know the linear length required.

Why use a linear foot to board foot converter?

This converter helps when you measure lumber length but need to calculate volume for pricing or material planning. Lumber is often sold by board feet but measured in linear feet on-site, making this conversion essential for accurate project estimation.

What lumber dimensions work with this converter?

Any lumber dimensions work with our converter. Common examples include 2×4, 2×6, 1×8, 4×4 lumber, or any custom dimensions. Just enter the width and thickness in inches along with your linear feet measurement for accurate board foot calculations.

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