Question 1

What is a board foot and how is it calculated?

Accepted Answer

A board foot is 144 cubic inches (12"×12"×1"). Calculate as: (thickness" × width" × length") ÷ 144. This calculator handles the conversion automatically.

Question 2

Why are lumber dimensions different from actual size?

Accepted Answer

Nominal sizes (2×4) represent rough-cut dimensions. After drying and planing, actual dimensions are smaller (1.5"×3.5"). This converter shows both.

Question 3

How do I calculate lumber for a project?

Accepted Answer

Determine the board feet needed, then convert to linear feet of your lumber size. This calculator helps convert between different lumber measurement systems.

Question 4

What is the difference between Doyle, Scribner, and International log scales?

Accepted Answer

Different log scale rules estimate board feet from log dimensions. Doyle underestimates small logs, Scribner is more accurate, and International is most precise.

Actual to Nominal Lumber Calculator - Free Online Tool

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