How to use lumber weight estimate
What this calculation does
A lumber weight estimate combines physical volume and a density entered for the relevant material and moisture condition.
Choose a volume input basis, enter its dimensions or quantity, and provide density from a suitable source for the wood condition.
Enter the measurements
- Volume input: Choose actual dimensions, geometric board feet or physical cubic feet.
- Physical volume: Enter measured physical volume in cubic feet.
- Density at stated moisture basis: Use density in pounds per cubic foot for the relevant condition.
- Actual thickness: For dimension mode, enter actual thickness.
- Actual width: For dimension mode, enter actual width.
- Actual length: For dimension mode, enter actual length in feet.
- Number of boards: For dimension mode, count identical boards.
- Geometric board feet: For BF mode, enter geometric board feet only.
Formula and variables
weight = physical volume × density.
Weight = physical volume×density. Board feet convert to cubic feet by dividing by 12; dimensions mode uses actual geometry.
Read the result
Two cubic feet at 35 lb/ft³ gives an estimated weight of 70 lb.
Worked example
Inputs: 2 ft³ at user-supplied 35 lb/ft³
- Volume = 2 ft³ and density = 35 lb/ft³.
- Weight = 2×35 = 70 lb.
Expected result: 70 lb
Frequently asked questions
Does the calculator supply species weight?
No. Density must be entered and depends on species and moisture condition.
Can nominal board measure be used as volume?
No. The physical-volume estimate requires actual dimensions or geometric board feet.
Conditions, presets and technical notes
Use physical volume, not nominal softwood board measure. Density is user supplied and must match species and moisture condition. The example 35 lb/ft³ is illustrative; individual boards vary.
