Log Board Foot Calculator For Lumber

Board Foot Formula:

\[ BF = \frac{Log\ Volume \times Recovery}{12} \]

Board Feet (BF):

Definition: This calculator estimates the board feet of lumber that can be obtained from a log based on its volume and recovery factor.

Purpose: It helps woodworkers, foresters, and lumber professionals determine how much usable lumber can be produced from a log.

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ BF = \frac{Log\ Volume \times Recovery}{12} \]

Where:

Explanation: The log volume is multiplied by the recovery factor (percentage of usable wood) and divided by 12 to convert to board feet.

Details: Accurate board foot estimation helps in pricing logs, planning lumber production, and maximizing wood utilization.

Tips: Enter the log volume in cubic feet and recovery factor (default 0.75). All values must be > 0.

Q1: What is a board foot?
A: A board foot is a volume measurement (144 cubic inches) of lumber, 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long.

Q2: What's a typical recovery factor?
A: Most sawmills achieve 60-80% recovery (0.6-0.8), depending on log quality and sawing technique.

Q3: How do I find log volume?
A: Use the formula: Volume = (π × (Diameter/2)² × Length) / 144 for diameter in inches and length in feet.

Q4: Does this account for drying shrinkage?
A: No, this calculates green board feet. Dried lumber will be slightly smaller in dimensions.

Q5: What affects recovery rate?
A: Log straightness, defects, saw kerf width, and sawing method (plain vs. quarter sawn).