Construction Basics
A plain-language refresher on the measurements, units and arithmetic behind most construction estimating.
Units You Will Actually Use
Construction mixes decimals and fractions. Get comfortable converting inches to feet and feet to inches and the rest gets easier.
- 12 inches = 1 foot
- 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
- 1 square yard = 9 square feet
- Board foot = 1 in thick × 12 in wide × 1 ft long
Area and Volume
Area = length × widthVolume = length × width × heightKeep every dimension in the same unit before multiplying. Convert the final figure to the unit your supplier uses.
Read a Fraction
- A tape marked 1/16" gives you exact measurements.
- Convert awkward fractions to decimal feet before doing math (e.g. 3" = 0.25 ft).
- Round materials up, never down.
Rule of Thumb
| Material | Common Ordering Unit |
|---|---|
| Concrete | cubic yard |
| Lumber | board foot / linear foot |
| Tile, flooring, paint | square foot / square yard |
| Gravel, sand | cubic yard / ton |
| Roofing | square (100 sq ft) |
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Related Calculators
Disclaimer: Figures on this page are general reference information. Always verify exact requirements with your project specifications and a qualified professional.