The wood density chart compares specific gravity, weight per board foot, and weight per cubic foot for common hardwoods and softwoods. Use the weight calculator to find out how much a lumber order will weigh before delivery.
Lumber Weight Calculator
Wood Density Reference
| Species | Type | Specific Gravity | lbs/ft³ | kg/m³ | lbs/board ft |
|---|
How to Use the Wood Density Chart
Knowing wood density helps you plan freight costs, structural loads, and project weight. This wood density chart gives density at standard 12% moisture content — the typical state of kiln-dried lumber.
Calculate Lumber Order Weight
Multiply board feet by the weight per board foot for the species. A 100 bf order of white oak at 3.7 lbs/bf = 370 lbs total. Freight carriers often charge by weight above 150 lbs — knowing the weight beforehand helps you choose the right shipping method or split the order.
Density and Structural Use
Higher density generally means greater strength and hardness. For workbenches and tool handles, hickory and hard maple outperform pine by a factor of 3–4× in hardness. For shelving, denser woods resist sagging under load better. However, density also means heavier wall cabinets and furniture — consider weight when designing large pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this wood density chart free?
Yes, completely free. Browse all species with no signup required.
What is the heaviest common wood?
Brazilian Walnut (Ipe) at 68 lbs/ft³ (1,090 kg/m³) is one of the heaviest commercially available woods. Lignum Vitae is even heavier at 77–82 lbs/ft³ but rarely available. Among domestic US species, Osage Orange at 48 lbs/ft³ and Shagbark Hickory at 51 lbs/ft³ are among the heaviest.
How do I calculate the weight of a lumber stack?
Weight (lbs) = board feet × density (lbs/bf). For 3/4" thick lumber at 12% MC: 1 board foot of white oak weighs about 4.0 lbs; a 100 board feet order weighs 400 lbs. Green (freshly sawn) lumber weighs 30–100% more depending on species.
What is specific gravity in wood?
Specific gravity (SG) is the ratio of wood density to water density. SG = 1.0 means wood weighs the same as water (62.4 lbs/ft³ = 1,000 kg/m³). Woods with SG > 1.0 (like Ipe and Lignum Vitae) sink in water. Most construction lumber has SG 0.35–0.55. Higher SG generally means harder, stronger wood.
Does moisture content affect wood density?
Yes significantly. Green wood density includes water weight — a freshly felled white oak log weighs about 56 lbs/ft³ vs. 48 lbs/ft³ kiln-dried (12% MC). Density values in this chart are at approximately 12% moisture content (air-dried / kiln-dried lumber standard).