Square Feet to Linear Feet Calculator
Linear feet depend on the width of what covers the area. Enter square footage and a board width in inches to get linear feet for planks, decking, fencing, or trim.
Last updated:How the Conversion Works
Linear feet = square feet ÷ (width in inches ÷ 12). The result is the total edge-to-edge length of boards needed to cover the area, before cuts.
Because the width drives everything, "sq ft to linear feet" has no single answer without it — our square feet vs linear feet guide explains when each unit is quoted.
Quick Reference (100 sq ft)
| Board Width | Linear Feet | With 10% Waste |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 in (trim) | 480 ft | 528 ft |
| 3.25 in (strip oak) | 369 ft | 406 ft |
| 5 in (plank) | 240 ft | 264 ft |
| 5.5 in (deck) | 218 ft | 240 ft |
| 6 in (fence) | 200 ft | 220 ft |
FAQ
How do I convert square feet to linear feet?
Divide sq ft by the width in feet: 100 sq ft of 5-in plank = 100 ÷ (5 ÷ 12) ≈ 240 linear feet.
How much 5-inch flooring for a 12x12 room?
144 sq ft → ≈ 346 linear feet, plus 10% waste ≈ 380 linear feet.
Should I add waste?
Yes — 10% for straight runs, 15% for diagonal or patterned layouts. The second result line includes 10%.
Does this price fencing correctly?
For fence pickets, subtract the gap between boards from the width (e.g., 6-in pickets at 5.75 in effective). For rails, measure the run length directly instead.
Sources
- Waste factors 10% straight-lay / 15% diagonal — National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) installation guidance.
- Exposed deck board width ~5.5 in — nominal 6 in decking after standard gap/overlap.
- Linear-foot math (area ÷ width) — standard board-foot estimating practice used by flooring and fencing contractors.