Log scaling (volume estimating) is a complicated and inexact science. There are literally hundreds of ways to do it and no one seems to agree. The only apparent standard seems to be the lack of a standard. We are not the experts on this - do a search and you will get thousands of 'expert' opinions. You can also find various tables that let you look up approximate yields. We do offer a table as well, but we think you'll find it easier to use our custom built log volume calculator (below). If you really want your head to explode, click here for an "easy-reading" document outlining the various log rules.

Two of the more common 'rules' in our area are the International Log Rule and the British Columbia Rule.

In terms of formula, the International Log Rule is the more complicated of the two. However, it accounts for taper (based on 4 foot increments of length) and also takes into consideration waste for slabs, saw cuts and other variations.

The British Columbia Rule was the statute rule in used in British Columbia until 1953, when it was replaced by a cubic foot system. It is still used when board foot scaling is requested. It assumes that a 3/4 inch thick ring from the periphery of the log provides an adequate allowance for slabs and edgings, that 1 inch thick lumber is produced, and that each piece has a 3/8 inch allowance for shrinkage and saw kerf.

To begin using our calculator:

Please enter your log's length,

rounded down to the closest full foot ->

Now enter the AVERAGE diameter of your log,

(in whole inches) measured at the small end,

inside the bark ->
(if the log is oval, use the average of two measurements taken at 90 degrees to each other)

How many logs of this size? ->

And finally, choose which of the Rules you would like to use:
International
British Columbia

Online calculator (c) 2011, developed by and courtesy of portablesawmill.ca