Linear Foot to Square Foot Calculator
Inches
Feet
Total Square Footage: 0 sq ft
Estimated Total Cost: $0.00
How to Convert Linear Feet to Square Feet
Understanding the difference between linear feet and square feet is essential for home improvement projects, flooring installations, and lumber purchases. While linear feet measure distance in a straight line, square feet measure the total area of a surface.
The Formula
To convert linear footage into square footage, you must know the width of the material you are using. The calculation depends on whether your width is measured in inches or feet:
- If Width is in Feet: Linear Feet × Width (ft) = Square Feet
- If Width is in Inches: (Linear Feet × Width (in)) / 12 = Square Feet
Practical Example: Decking Boards
Suppose you are buying 100 linear feet of 1×6 decking boards. Note that a "nominal" 6-inch board is actually 5.5 inches wide.
- Total Linear Feet: 100
- Actual Width: 5.5 inches
- Calculation: (100 × 5.5) / 12 = 45.83 Square Feet
Common Material Width Conversions
| Material (Nominal) | Actual Width | Multiplier (to get SF) |
|---|---|---|
| 1×4 Board | 3.5 inches | 0.291 |
| 1×6 Board | 5.5 inches | 0.458 |
| 1×8 Board | 7.25 inches | 0.604 |
| 1×12 Board | 11.25 inches | 0.937 |
When to Use This Calculator
This calculator is perfect for DIYers and contractors who need to estimate coverage for:
- Hardwood Flooring: Calculating how many square feet are in a specific number of floorboards.
- Fencing: Determining the surface area of fence pickets for staining or painting.
- Trim and Baseboards: Calculating material needs for wide decorative trim.
- Siding: Converting linear runs of lap siding into total wall coverage.