While both board feet and linear feet are used to measure lumber, they represent different aspects:

• Board foot: A measure of volume. It represents a piece of lumber 1 inch thick, 1 foot wide, and 1 foot long.  
• Linear foot: A measure of length. It simply refers to a length of 1 foot, regardless of the wood's dimensions.  

Why the Confusion?

The relationship between board feet and linear feet can be confusing because the conversion depends on the wood's thickness and width. You can't directly convert between them without considering these dimensions.

How to Convert Board Feet to Linear Feet

To convert board feet to linear feet, you need to know the thickness and width of the lumber. Here's the formula:  

Linear feet = (Board feet x 144) / (Thickness in inches x Width in inches)

Example:

Let's say you have 10 board feet of lumber that is 2 inches thick and 6 inches wide. To find the linear feet:

1. Plug in the values: Linear feet = (10 x 144) / (2 x 6)
2. Calculate: Linear feet = 1440 / 12
3. Result: Linear feet = 120 feet

Therefore, 10 board feet of 2x6 lumber is equal to 120 linear feet.

Important Notes:

• This conversion works for lumber of uniform thickness and width.
• Always double-check your calculations to avoid errors.
• Some online calculators can help with this conversion.

Why is this Conversion Useful?

Understanding the relationship between board feet and linear feet is important for:

• Estimating Lumber Needs: When you know the board feet required for a project, you can calculate the linear feet needed to purchase.
• Comparing Prices: Lumber is sometimes sold by linear feet, so this conversion helps you compare prices with those quoted in board feet.
• Inventory Management: You might need to convert board feet to linear feet to track your lumber inventory.

In Conclusion

While board feet and linear feet are distinct measurements, understanding their relationship is essential for anyone working with lumber. By using the formula or an online calculator, you can easily convert between them and make informed decisions about your lumber needs.