BuildMeasureHow to Read Lumber Prices
Lumber can be priced by the piece, linear foot, square foot, or board foot. Sheet goods are commonly priced per sheet. Before comparing suppliers, identify the unit, the material condition, and the actual size included in each price.
Price per piece
A piece price is simple when the boards have a fixed size. Compare actual dimensions, length, grade, moisture condition, and whether the board is rough or surfaced. A cheaper piece may contain less usable material.
Price per linear foot
Linear-foot pricing covers length only. Width and thickness must be fixed by the product description. Multiply the required purchased length by the rate, then round to the lengths the supplier sells.
Price per board foot
Board-foot pricing uses volume. Ask whether the yard calculates from rough dimensions, nominal dimensions, or measured surfaced stock. Also ask how thickness categories and minimum quantities are handled.
Sheet pricing
Compare sheet dimensions, thickness, grade, face quality, core type, and certification. Delivery fees and minimum orders can change the practical total. If the project needs matching faces, include enough material to select compatible sheets.
Create a comparable note
For each quote, record the date, supplier, product, pricing unit, tax treatment, delivery, and the quantity you must actually purchase. Then calculate a complete order total rather than comparing a single headline number.