Lumber Calculator — Studs, Boards & Linear Feet
Build a cut list for any framing project: enter each lumber size (2×4, 2×6, or metric cross-sections), quantity and length, and get total linear metres or feet plus estimated weight. Works for wall plates, rafters, joists, battens and blocking.
Add materials and lengths to see calculation
Save to project
Free to try — no sign-up
Plan the whole job — not just this calculation
Save results to a project: budget and shopping list build themselves, and the whole plan exports as a PDF. Draw your floor plan and room sizes pre-fill the calculators.
How the lumber calculator works
- 1Enter each lumber type with cross-section, quantity and individual length
- 2Length per line item: quantity × length
- 3Total: sum of all line items in linear metres or feet
- 4Weight: cross-section area × length × timber density (typically 500 kg/m³ for softwood)
- 5Add 10–15% waste for cuts, splits and selection
- 6Lumber is sold by the running length — round up each line item independently
Worked example
Roof structure: 12 rafters at 4.2 m, 6 ridge board pieces at 2.4 m, 24 blocking pieces at 0.6 m. All 48×98 mm (≈ 2×4 nominal) structural softwood.
Rafters: 50.4 lm. Ridge: 14.4 lm. Blocking: 14.4 lm. Total: 79.2 lm. With 10% waste: 87.2 lm. Estimated weight: 207 kg.
Frequently asked questions
What are the actual dimensions of a 2×4?
A nominal 2×4 is approximately 1.5 × 3.5 inches (38 × 89 mm) actual after drying and planing. European equivalents like 48×98 mm are named by actual size. Always check actual dimensions when mixing systems.
What is a linear foot / linear metre of lumber?
Simply one foot or one metre of length, regardless of cross-section. Lumber yards price by running length, with the price varying by cross-section and grade.
How much does framing lumber weigh?
At an average softwood density of 500 kg/m³, a 47×100 mm section weighs about 2.35 kg per metre — so a 4.2 m rafter weighs approximately 9.9 kg.
What strength grade do I need for structural framing?
C24 (or the locally required structural grade) is used for most load-bearing applications like rafters, joists and studs in bearing walls; C16 is acceptable for non-structural use. Confirm with span tables or an engineer for structural design.