Definition
Board Foot
A board foot is a unit of measurement used in the lumber industry. It is defined as a volume of wood that is one foot wide, one foot long, and one inch thick, which equals 144 cubic inches. This measurement takes into account the nominal dimensions of lumber, which means it refers to the dimensions before the wood is dried and planed.
Examples
- Single Board Measurement: If you have a piece of lumber that is 12 inches wide, 12 inches long, and 1 inch thick, it equals 1 board foot.
- Multiple Boards Calculation: For a lumber piece measuring 6 inches wide, 12 inches long, and 2 inches thick, it would still equal 1 board foot (since 6 inches * 12 inches * 2 inches = 144 cubic inches).
- Larger Quantities: For a stack of lumber that measures 24 inches wide, 12 feet long, and 2 inches thick, the total would be calculated as follows: 24 inches / 12 inches per foot * 12 feet / 1 foot * 2 inches / 1 inch = 48 board feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of using board feet?
Board feet is a common unit of measurement in the lumber industry for quantifying large volumes of wood. It standardizes purchases and ensures clarity in pricing and dimensional specifications.
Is the actual measurement the same as the nominal measurement?
No, the nominal measurements refer to the dimensions before the lumber is dried and planed. After these processes, the actual dimensions are slightly smaller.
How do I convert cubic inches to board feet?
To convert cubic inches to board feet, divide the volume in cubic inches by 144. Example: 576 cubic inches / 144 = 4 board feet.
Why is understanding board feet important in construction?
Understanding board feet is crucial in construction for accurate budgeting and material sourcing. It helps contractors estimate the amount of wood needed for a project and manage costs effectively.
Can board foot measurement be applied to all wood types?
Yes, board foot measurement is widely applicable to all types of lumber, regardless of wood species.
Related Terms
Nominal Dimensions
Nominal Dimensions: The dimensions of lumber before it has been dried and planed. These dimensions are often larger than the actual, finished dimensions of the wood.
Planing
Planing: The process of smoothing the surface of lumber, which reduces its dimensions slightly from the nominal size.
Drying
Drying: The process of removing moisture from lumber, which causes the wood to shrink and harden, resulting in smaller actual dimensions than nominal ones.
Linear Foot
Linear Foot: A measurement of length in feet without regard to width or thickness, often used for materials like pipe, steel, and fabric.
Online Resources
Suggested Books
- “Understanding Wood: A Craftsman’s Guide to Wood Technology” by R. Bruce Hoadley
- “Woodworker’s Guide to Wood: Softwoods, Hardwoods, Plywoods, Composites” by Fox Chapel Publishing
- “The Wood Handbook: An Illustrated Guide to Wood Strip Construction” by Nick Loenen
Fundamentals of Board Foot: Lumber Measurement Basics Quiz
Thank you for diving into the world of lumber measurement with a focus on board feet and tackling our informative quiz questions. Keep enhancing your understanding of construction and woodworking measurements!
