Lumber Cost Calculator
Estimate the total cost of a lumber order by multiplying board feet by the price per board foot. Use it when budgeting a woodworking project or comparing quotes from different suppliers.
About this calculator
Lumber is priced and sold by the board foot (bf), a unit of volume equal to 144 cubic inches. The total cost formula is straightforward: Total Cost = Board Feet × Price per Board Foot. While the arithmetic is simple, the real value lies in quickly scaling estimates across multiple boards or species. Prices vary widely — common pine might sell for $1–$3/bf, while figured maple or exotic hardwoods can exceed $20/bf. Once you know the board-foot volume of each piece (calculated separately using length, width, and thickness), this calculator converts that volume directly into a dollar amount. It is particularly useful when comparing supplier quotes side-by-side or when checking whether a project fits your material budget before you buy.
How to use
Imagine you need 45 board feet of white oak for a bookcase, and your local hardwood dealer charges $5.50 per board foot. Apply the formula: Total Cost = 45 × $5.50 = $247.50. Now suppose a second supplier offers the same species at $4.80/bf. For 45 bf: 45 × $4.80 = $216.00 — a saving of $31.50 on this single order. If your project also requires 20 bf of hard maple at $6.00/bf, calculate that separately (20 × $6.00 = $120.00) and add the two results for a combined material cost of $367.50.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the price per board foot for different wood species?
Price per board foot varies by species, grade, region, and market conditions. Domestic softwoods like pine and Douglas fir typically range from $1 to $4/bf at lumber yards, while domestic hardwoods such as oak, maple, and cherry run $4–$12/bf. Exotic or figured species can exceed $20–$40/bf. The best sources for current pricing are local hardwood dealers, online specialty wood suppliers, and industry price sheets published by organizations like the National Hardwood Lumber Association. Always get a quote for the specific grade (FAS, #1 Common, etc.) you need, as grade can double or triple the price.
What is the difference between board foot price and linear foot price for lumber?
A board foot price accounts for all three dimensions (length, width, thickness), making it comparable across different board sizes. A linear foot price only accounts for length, meaning a wider or thicker board costs more per linear foot even at the same species and grade. Home-improvement stores often sell dimensional softwood by the linear foot or by the piece, while hardwood dealers almost always use board feet. When comparing prices, always convert to the same unit — typically board feet — to make a fair comparison.
How can I reduce total lumber cost for a large woodworking project?
Start by creating a cut list and calculating the exact board feet needed, then add 10–15% for waste from defects and offcuts. Buying in larger quantities often earns a volume discount from hardwood dealers. Purchasing rough-sawn lumber and milling it yourself (if you have a planer and jointer) is typically 20–40% cheaper than buying surfaced boards. Choosing a lower grade that still suits your project — for example, #1 Common instead of FAS — can also cut costs significantly, since lower-grade boards have more character and shorter clear sections but are perfectly usable for many furniture pieces.