Struggling with how to calculate linear feet? This simple guide breaks it down in everyday language. Whether you’re measuring flooring, wood, or fabric, you’ll learn exactly what linear feet are and how to calculate them. No confusing math. Just practical advice, examples, and tips anyone can use—plus answers to FAQs and a handy external link to make your next DIY or shopping trip a breeze.
How to Calculate Linear Feet Easily (No Math Degree Needed)
Ever been at a hardware store and someone asks, “How many linear feet do you need?” And you just stare like, “Is that even a real thing?” Don’t worry—we’ve all been there.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to calculate linear feet in the easiest way possible. No complicated math. No techy jargon. Just plain English with a bit of humor and a lot of clarity. You’ll walk away knowing how to figure out linear feet for any project, like buying flooring, shelving, or fabric, without getting a headache.
What Are Linear Feet, Anyway?
Let’s start simple.
A linear foot is just a measurement of length.
It’s one foot long. That’s it. No width. No height. Just the length.
So, if you lined up 10 rulers end-to-end, you’d have 10 linear feet. Easy, right?
Why Does This Matter?
Stores often price things like wood, fabric, or wire per linear foot.
If you’re renovating or building something, you’ll need to know how many linear feet to buy.
Getting this wrong could mean:
- Spending more money than needed
- Coming up short on materials
- A second (or third) trip to the store 😩
How to Calculate Linear Feet (Step-by-Step)
Ready to feel like a math genius? Here’s your 3-step cheat sheet:
1. Measure the Length
Grab a tape measure. Write down how long the item is—in inches or feet.
2. Convert Inches to Feet (If Needed)
If your measurement is in inches, divide by 12.
Example:
72 inches ÷ 12 = 6 linear feet
3. Add It Up
If you have more than one item, just add all the lengths together.
Example:
6 ft + 4.5 ft + 3 ft = 13.5 linear feet
That’s it. Told you it was easy.
Quick Tips to Keep in Mind
- Linear feet don’t care about width or height. Just length.
- Always round up if you’re unsure—better extra than not enough.
- Double-check the store’s measurements, especially for materials like fabric or lumber.
Real-Life Examples
Let’s make it super practical:
- Flooring a hallway that’s 12 feet long: You need 12 linear feet.
- Buying trim for 3 windows, each 4 feet across: 3 x 4 = 12 linear feet.
- Cutting shelves from a 10-foot board: Want 5 shelves, each 2 feet long? You need 10 linear feet total (5 x 2).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t mix up square feet and linear feet. One measures area; the other measures length.
- Don’t forget to include waste or cuts—add 10% just to be safe.
- Don’t assume width is included in pricing. Always check!
Bonus: Online Linear Feet Calculators
Still not sure? Try a free tool like Home Depot’s Project Calculator. Just plug in your numbers and it does the math for you. Lazy? No. Smart? Definitely.
FAQs About Linear Feet
1. Is linear feet the same as feet?
Yup! It’s just a fancy way of saying “feet in a straight line.”
2. How do I measure something that curves or bends?
Use a flexible tape and follow the curve closely, then measure the total length.
3. What if I need to measure in meters?
No problem. 1 meter = 3.28 linear feet. Just multiply.
4. Can I calculate linear feet on a smartphone?
Absolutely. Just open your calculator app and divide inches by 12, or use that online calculator we mentioned above.
5. Why do stores price things by linear feet instead of square feet?
Because some materials (like trim or cables) only involve length, not width or area.