1. What is a Board Foot Calculator for Logs?

Definition: This calculator estimates the volume of lumber in board feet that can be obtained from a log using the log scale rule.

Purpose: It helps loggers, sawmill operators, and woodworkers estimate the lumber yield from logs.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( BF \) — Board feet (volume of lumber)
• \( D \) — Diameter of the log (inches) at small end inside bark
• \( L \) — Length of the log (feet)

Explanation: This formula is based on the Doyle Log Scale, one of the most commonly used log rules in the eastern United States.

3. Importance of Board Foot Calculation

Details: Accurate board foot calculations are essential for timber sales, inventory management, and sawmill operations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the log diameter at the small end (inside bark) and enter in inches. Enter the log length in feet. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a board foot?
A: A board foot is a volume measurement equal to 1 foot long × 1 foot wide × 1 inch thick (144 cubic inches).

Q2: Why are there different log scale rules?
A: Different rules (Doyle, Scribner, International) account for sawing methods and regional practices, producing slightly different estimates.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The Doyle rule tends to underestimate volume for small logs and overestimate for large logs compared to actual mill yield.

Q4: Should I measure diameter inside or outside bark?
A: For accurate results, measure inside bark at the small end of the log.

Q5: Does this account for taper in logs?
A: The basic formula assumes minimal taper. For logs with significant taper, use the average of both end diameters.