Construction Measurement Calculator - Free Building Calculator
Construction Measurement Calculator
Convert construction measurements, calculate board feet, and work with feet-inches notation. Essential for builders, contractors, and DIY projects.
Feet-Inches Notation Converter
Enter Measurement
Conversions
Visual Measurement Guide
🪵 Common Lumber Sizes
| Nominal Size | Actual Size | Board Feet (8' length) |
|---|---|---|
| 2x4 | 1.5" × 3.5" | 5.33 |
| 2x6 | 1.5" × 5.5" | 8 |
| 2x8 | 1.5" × 7.25" | 10.67 |
| 2x10 | 1.5" × 9.25" | 13.33 |
| 2x12 | 1.5" × 11.25" | 16 |
How to use this calculator
🔨 How to Use This Calculator
- For feet-inches conversion: Enter either format and see instant conversion
- For board feet: Enter lumber dimensions to calculate board feet
- For area & volume: Calculate square footage or cubic yards needed
- Use quick select buttons for common measurements
- Check the visual ruler for measurement reference
📐 Construction Measurement Basics
Feet-Inches Notation
- • Written as: 10'-6" (10 feet 6 inches)
- • Fractions: 5'-3 1/2"
- • Always simplify fractions
- • Use appropriate precision
Board Feet
- • 1 board foot = 144 cubic inches
- • = 1" × 12" × 12"
- • Used for lumber pricing
- • Formula: (T × W × L) ÷ 12
🌟 Common Construction Uses
Framing
- • Stud spacing: 16" or 24" on center
- • Standard wall height: 8' or 9'
- • Header sizes vary by span
Concrete
- • Slab: 4" typical thickness
- • Footings: 8-12" depth
- • Order 10% extra for waste
💡 Tips for Students
- • Always double-check measurements before cutting
- • "Measure twice, cut once" - carpenter's rule
- • Know nominal vs actual lumber sizes
- • Practice reading tape measures to 1/16"
- • Understand material waste factors
⚠️ Important Reminders
- • Lumber dimensions are nominal (2x4 = 1.5" × 3.5")
- • Account for kerf (saw blade width) when cutting
- • Consider moisture content affecting dimensions
- • Always round up when ordering materials
- • Check local building codes for requirements
About this calculator
Convert between feet-inches notation and decimals. Calculate board feet, square footage, and construction measurements.
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