Tree Board Foot Calculator
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Metric Units
Introduction
If you’re involved in forestry, logging, sawmilling, or even cutting down trees on your property, one key question always arises: “How much usable lumber will I get from this tree?” That’s where the Tree Board Foot Calculator comes in.
Unlike standard board foot calculators that use lumber dimensions, this tool is designed to estimate the board footage from raw logs or tree trunks—before they are sawn into boards. It helps you determine how much lumber you’ll yield based on tree diameter and log length. Whether you’re a landowner, logger, or DIYer processing your own timber, this calculator is an essential planning tool.
What is a Tree Board Foot Calculator?
A Tree Board Foot Calculator is a tool that estimates how many board feet of lumber can be harvested from a log or tree trunk. It uses formulas known as log rules, such as the Doyle Rule, Scribner Rule, and International ¼-Inch Rule. These formulas consider taper, kerf (saw blade thickness), and standard milling losses.
Unlike a typical board foot calculator—which is used for finished or rough-cut lumber—this calculator works with logs in their raw form.
Key Inputs for Accurate Results
To get an accurate estimate of how much usable lumber a log contains, you need to input two main details:
Small End Diameter (in inches): Measure the diameter inside the bark at the smaller end of the log. Use inches for precision.
Log Length (in feet): Enter the usable log length, typically measured to the nearest 2-foot increment (8 ft, 10 ft, etc.).
The calculator then applies a log rule formula to estimate board footage.
Understanding Log Rules
Different rules are used in various regions and industries. Here are the three most common:
1. Doyle Rule
Common in the Eastern U.S.
Simple but underestimates small logs.
Formula:
÷ 16
2. Scribner Rule
Good for logs between 8-20 feet long.
Developed for saw logs, factoring in taper and kerf.
3. International ¼-Inch Rule
Most accurate and widely accepted.
Adjusts for kerf and taper more effectively.
Produces reliable estimates across a wide range of log sizes.
Our calculator can use one or more of these rules, depending on your preferences or regional standards.
Example Calculation
Let’s say you have a log with:
Small end diameter: 18 inches
Length: 12 feet
Using the Doyle Rule:
÷ 16
2352 ÷ 16 = 147 board feet (approx.)
Now imagine you have five similar logs. You’d get around 735 board feet in total.
Why Estimate Log Board Feet?
Estimating how many board feet are in a log helps you:
Plan milling and inventory
Set pricing if selling logs or lumber
Understand timber value on your land
Reduce waste and improve efficiency
Compare log yields from different trees or areas
It’s especially useful for:
Small sawmills
Firewood sellers
Farmers clearing timber
Woodworkers sourcing rough material
Forestry professionals conducting appraisals
Real-World Applications
Let’s say you’re a landowner clearing trees to build a cabin. Using the Tree Board Foot Calculator:
You can estimate the total yield from each log.
You can plan how many boards of each size you’ll get.
You’ll avoid overharvesting or cutting too few trees.
You’ll have accurate numbers to compare with mill pricing or sale estimates.
Similarly, if you’re buying logs from a supplier, this tool ensures you aren’t overpaying. Always verify log board feet before purchasing in bulk.
Tips for Best Results
Always measure the smallest diameter inside the bark.
Use a log scale stick for fast diameter estimates.
Trim logs to standard lengths (e.g., 8, 10, 12, 16 feet) to align with rule calculations.
Add a margin for waste depending on your sawmill efficiency.
Remember: green (wet) wood weighs more and may yield slightly less when dry.
Limitations to Consider
While the Tree Board Foot Calculator is incredibly helpful, remember:
It gives estimates, not exact numbers.
Species and grain defects may affect actual lumber output.
Logs with taper or knots may yield less usable material.
Mill cutting style and blade width (kerf) can also impact yield.
Still, this tool offers an excellent starting point for planning and pricing.
Conclusion
Whether you’re managing a forest, running a sawmill, or cutting logs for your personal workshop, knowing how much lumber a tree can yield is vital. The Tree Board Foot Calculator empowers you to make informed decisions about log value, lumber output, and overall efficiency.
Instead of guessing or manually applying outdated tables, use our tool to estimate board feet from logs quickly, accurately, and with confidence. It’s forestry math made simple.