What is Price Per Linear Foot?
Price per linear foot is a measurement that indicates how much a material costs for each foot of length. This pricing method is commonly used for materials that are sold primarily based on their length rather than area or volume, such as lumber, pipes, molding, fabric, cables, and fencing.
Understanding the price per linear foot is essential for:
- Budget Planning: Accurately estimate material costs for construction and DIY projects
- Cost Comparison: Compare prices between different suppliers or material types
- Value Assessment: Determine which option offers the best value for your money
- Project Scaling: Calculate costs when scaling projects up or down
How to Calculate Price Per Linear Foot
The calculation for price per linear foot is straightforward. You simply divide the total cost by the total length of the material in feet.
Example Calculation
You purchase a 20-foot piece of lumber for $100. What is the price per linear foot?
Price Per Linear Foot = $100 ÷ 20 feet = $5.00 per foot
This means each foot of lumber costs $5.00.
Understanding Linear Foot vs. Other Measurements
Figure 1: Linear foot measures only the length of a material, regardless of its width or thickness.
It's important to understand the difference between linear foot and other measurement types:
| Measurement | Dimensions | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Linear Foot | Length only (1D) | Lumber, pipes, molding, fencing, cables |
| Square Foot | Length × Width (2D) | Flooring, roofing, siding, countertops |
| Cubic Foot | Length × Width × Height (3D) | Concrete, soil, mulch, storage |
| Board Foot | 12" × 12" × 1" of lumber | Hardwood lumber pricing |
Industries That Use Price Per Linear Foot
Construction
In construction, linear foot pricing is used for framing lumber, trim, baseboards, crown molding, and other structural or decorative elements. Contractors calculate the total linear feet needed for a project and multiply by the price per foot to estimate costs.
Plumbing
Pipes, tubing, and conduit are typically sold by the linear foot. Different materials (PVC, copper, PEX) have vastly different prices per foot, making comparison shopping essential.
Textiles and Fabrics
Fabric stores often price materials by the linear foot or yard. When comparing fabrics of different widths, you may need to calculate the effective cost per square foot for an accurate comparison.
Fencing
Fence materials including panels, posts, and rails are commonly priced per linear foot. A typical residential fence might require 150-300 linear feet of material.
Electrical and Networking
Wiring, cables, and conduit are sold by the linear foot. Understanding the cost per foot helps electricians and network installers accurately bid on projects.
Common Materials and Typical Price Ranges
Here are some typical price per linear foot ranges for common materials (prices vary by region and quality):
| Material | Typical Price Range (per linear foot) |
|---|---|
| Pine Lumber (2×4) | $0.50 - $1.50 |
| Oak Lumber | $3.00 - $8.00 |
| PVC Pipe (1/2") | $0.20 - $0.50 |
| Copper Pipe (1/2") | $2.00 - $5.00 |
| Chain Link Fencing | $10 - $20 |
| Wood Privacy Fence | $15 - $35 |
| Crown Molding | $1.00 - $15.00 |
| Ethernet Cable (Cat6) | $0.15 - $0.50 |
Tips for Getting the Best Price Per Linear Foot
- Buy in Bulk: Many suppliers offer discounts for larger quantities
- Compare Multiple Suppliers: Prices can vary significantly between stores
- Consider Quality: The cheapest option isn't always the best value long-term
- Account for Waste: Add 10-15% extra for cuts and mistakes
- Check for Defects: Lower-grade materials might be cheaper but less efficient
- Time Your Purchase: Seasonal sales can offer significant savings
Converting Between Units
When comparing materials measured in different units, use these conversions:
| From | To Feet | Multiply By |
|---|---|---|
| Inches | Feet | 0.0833 (or ÷ 12) |
| Yards | Feet | 3 |
| Meters | Feet | 3.281 |
| Centimeters | Feet | 0.0328 (or ÷ 30.48) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between linear foot and running foot?
Linear foot and running foot are the same thing. Both terms refer to a measurement of length equal to 12 inches, regardless of the width or thickness of the material.
How do I convert price per linear foot to price per meter?
Multiply the price per linear foot by 3.281 to get the price per meter. For example, if lumber costs $5 per linear foot, it costs $16.41 per meter ($5 × 3.281).
Why do some stores price by linear foot and others by board foot?
Linear foot is simpler and commonly used for dimensional lumber of standard sizes. Board foot accounts for the volume of wood and is more common for hardwoods and custom-milled lumber where dimensions vary.
How do I calculate total cost from price per linear foot?
Multiply the price per linear foot by the total length you need. For example, if you need 50 feet of material at $3 per linear foot, the total cost is $150 (50 × $3).