Board Feet vs Linear Feet
Compare lumber volume with length-only measurement.
Linear feet measures only run length
One linear foot is one foot along a board or product, regardless of cross-section. Board feet includes thickness and width as well as length. Ten linear feet of 1 × 4 and ten linear feet of 2 × 12 share a run length but contain very different volumes.
To convert a uniform linear-foot quantity to BF, thickness and width must be supplied: thickness inches × width inches × linear feet ÷ 12. Without both cross-section dimensions, there is no unique conversion.
Worked moulding comparison
Twenty-four linear feet of stock measuring 0.75 × 3 inches contains 4.5 BF. The same 24 linear feet at 1.5 × 6 inches contains 18 BF. A per-linear-foot price may still be commercially valid, but volume comparison requires those dimensions.
When linear feet is the better unit
Use linear feet for trim runs, edging, rails or other purchases where cross-section is fixed by the product specification and the practical question is length. Use BF when comparing material volume across different sizes or applying a price stated per board foot.
Avoiding price comparison errors
Do not divide a BF price by length alone. Confirm the finished or supplied cross-section, waste and piece-length constraints. A cheaper price per linear foot can represent less wood, a different profile or a different manufacturing stage.
Questions about this topic
How many BF are in one linear foot?
It depends on thickness and width.
Can fixed-size decking be priced linearly?
Yes, but include its cross-section when comparing volume.
Does piece count help?
Only when every piece length and cross-section is known.
Related BoardFoot Bench pages
Method and content reviewed 3 September 2026.