1. What is Board Feet Calculation?

Board feet is a measurement of lumber volume. One board foot equals 1 foot long × 1 foot wide × 1 inch thick (or equivalent volume). This calculation helps estimate the amount of usable lumber in a log.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the board feet formula:

Where:

• \( BF \) — Board feet
• \( D \) — Diameter of the log in inches (small end inside bark)
• \( L \) — Length of the log in feet

Explanation: The formula approximates the volume of lumber that can be sawn from a log after accounting for saw kerf and slab loss.

3. Importance of Board Feet Calculation

Details: Accurate board feet calculation is essential for lumber industry professionals, woodworkers, and anyone buying or selling logs to determine fair pricing and estimate yields.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure diameter at the small end of the log (inside bark) in inches. Enter length in feet. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why divide by 16 in the formula?
A: The divisor accounts for saw kerf (width of the saw cut) and slab loss (outer portions of the log that become waste).

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a rough estimate. Actual yield depends on log quality, sawing method, and desired lumber dimensions.

Q3: Should I measure diameter inside or outside bark?
A: Always measure inside bark (diameter under bark) as bark is waste material in lumber production.

Q4: Does log taper affect the calculation?
A: Yes, for very tapered logs, you might average diameters from both ends or use more complex formulas.

Q5: Are there other board feet formulas?
A: Yes, some use different divisors (e.g., Doyle rule uses 4, Scribner uses complex diagrams) but the 16 divisor is common for modern sawmills.