Board feet in ten nominal 2 × 6 × 8 boards

Board feet measure lumber volume, not the length of a board. One board foot is equivalent to 144 cubic inches. To estimate board feet using dimensions in inches and feet, multiply thickness (in) × width (in) × length (ft), then divide by 12.

Example: ten nominal 2 × 6 × 8 boards

For one board using the nominal dimensions: (2 × 6 × 8) ÷ 12 = 8 board feet. Ten boards have 10 × 8 = 80 nominal board feet. The same ten boards have 80 linear feet in total length, but that is a different measurement that happens to yield the same number here.

Nominal versus actual lumber dimensions

Many surfaced construction boards are smaller than their nominal labels. For illustration, if the measured board is 1.5 × 5.5 × 96 inches, actual geometric volume is (1.5 × 5.5 × 96) ÷ 144 = 5.5 board feet per board, or 55 actual-volume board feet for ten. Lumber merchants may price construction lumber by piece or linear foot and hardwood by board foot using their own measurement conventions. Always confirm what your quote measures.

When are board feet useful?

Board feet help compare lumber volumes across widths, thicknesses, and lengths. They do not directly determine framing suitability, structural requirements, cutting plans, or the number of boards needed for a deck.

Plan a mixed lumber order

Enter each stock size and quantity in the Board Foot Calculator. For board spacing and deck-specific purchasing estimates, use the Deck Calculator. Account separately for cuts, defects, and supplier pricing units.

Use your exact measurements

These examples are for planning, not project specifications. Input your own area, product packaging and allowances for a more useful estimate.

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Related tool: Deck Calculator