Understanding how to calculate linear feet is essential for home improvement, construction, shipping, and countless DIY projects. Whether you’re figuring out how much lumber, flooring, or fencing you need, or simply want to know how to measure linear feet, this comprehensive article covers every aspect—and answers the most highly searched FAQs on the topic.
What Is a Linear Foot?
A linear foot (also called “lineal foot”) is a straightforward measurement of length in a straight line—equal to exactly 12 inches, or 1 foot. Unlike square feet (which measures area) or cubic feet (which measures volume), linear feet tells you only how long something is, regardless of width or height. It’s commonly used for measuring lumber, fabric, pipes, baseboards, and more.
Why Is Linear Footage Important?
- Material Estimation: Most building materials such as lumber, wire, and carpet are sold by the linear foot.
- Shipping & Moves: Moving companies often charge by the linear footage of space used in a truck.
- Home Projects: Measuring for moldings, countertops, tiles, and shelving typically requires knowing linear feet.
How to Calculate Linear Feet
Calculating linear feet is refreshingly simple. Here’s what to do:
- Measure the Length:
- Use a tape measure to measure the length of an object or space—in feet.
- Add Sections Together:
- If you have several pieces, measure each one and add them together for the total linear feet.
- Convert Inches to Feet (if needed):
- If your measurement is in inches, divide by 12 to convert to feet.
Example: 36 inches ÷ 12 = 3 linear feet.
- If your measurement is in inches, divide by 12 to convert to feet.
Formula:
Linear Feet = Total Length in Inches ÷ 12
Example: Measuring Countertops
Suppose you need three sections of countertop:
- 4 ft, 5 ft, and 2 ft
Total linear feet = 4 + 5 + 2 = 11 linear feet
Related Terms: Linear Feet vs. Square Feet vs. Cubic Feet
| Unit | What It Measures | Example Use | Formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linear Foot | Length | Lumber, fencing, piping | Just measure length |
| Square Foot | Area (L × W) | Flooring, tile, surface areas | Area = Length × Width |
| Cubic Foot | Volume (L × W × H) | Storage, containers, liquids | Volume = Length × Width × Height |
- To convert linear feet to square feet, multiply by width in feet.
Example: 20 linear feet of material, each 2 feet wide: 20 × 2 = 40 square feet. - To convert square feet to linear feet, divide area by width.
Step-by-Step: How to Measure Linear Feet
- Get a tape measure or measuring tool.
- Place the tip at one end of the space or object.
- Stretch the tape to the other end, recording the number of feet.
- For multiple sections, measure each and add the lengths.
Tip: Always round up to the nearest foot for material estimation.
Common Applications
- Flooring: Calculate the perimeter for baseboards or strips of hardwood.
- Shipping: Measure the length of space needed for freight or moving trucks.
- Building: Determine lumber or pipe needed by measuring straight-line distances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do you figure out linear feet for flooring?
Measure each wall’s length (in feet) where the flooring will be laid. Add the numbers together—this is your total linear feet.
2. How do you find linear feet for shipping or freight?
For items like pallets:
Divide the number of pallets by 2, multiply by the pallet length in inches, then divide by 12 to get linear feet.
3. Is linear feet different from regular feet?
No. “Linear feet” simply emphasizes that you’re measuring length in a straight line. One linear foot equals one regular foot.
4. How do you convert inches to linear feet?
Divide the number of inches by 12. For example, 96 inches ÷ 12 = 8 linear feet.
5. Do I need to include width or height in linear footage?
No, linear footage is only about length. Include width or height only when calculating area (square feet) or volume (cubic feet).
Expert Tips and Best Practices
- Always measure twice before finalizing orders.
- Round up to avoid running short of material.
- When buying materials, add about 10% extra to account for waste and cutting errors.
- Group similar-sized items (like boards or shelves) together for easier calculation.
Final Thoughts
By understanding how to measure, figure out, and calculate linear feet, you can confidently estimate materials and costs for any project—big or small. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, contractor, or simply organizing a move, knowing how to find and measure linear feet saves time, money, and stress.