Log Weight Calculator
Use our Log Weight Calculator to determine the weight of logs and estimate lumber yield for various wood species. Calculate weights for different moisture contents and get board foot estimates using the Doyle scale.
How to Calculate Log Weight
Log weight calculation depends on wood species, moisture content, and log dimensions. Understanding these factors helps in transportation planning, equipment sizing, and lumber yield estimation.
Step 1: Measure the Log
Accurately measure the log dimensions:
- Diameter: Measure at the small end for consistency
- Length: Total usable length of the log
- Species: Identify the wood species for density values
- Moisture Content: Determine if green, air-dried, or kiln-dried
Step 2: Calculate Volume
Use the cylinder formula to calculate log volume:
- Convert diameter to radius (diameter / 2)
- Ensure all measurements are in the same units
- Result will be in cubic units (cubic feet or cubic meters)
Step 3: Apply Wood Density
Different wood species have different densities:
- Hardwoods: Generally heavier (40-60 lbs/ft3)
- Softwoods: Generally lighter (25-45 lbs/ft3)
- Green wood: Contains significant moisture weight
- Dried wood: 20-50% lighter than green wood
Step 4: Account for Moisture
Moisture content significantly affects weight:
- Green logs: Full species density
- Air-dried: 15-20% moisture content
- Kiln-dried: 6-12% moisture content
- Seasoned: Well-aged, under 15% moisture
Wood Species and Properties
Different wood species have varying densities, shrinkage rates, and lumber values. Understanding these properties helps in material selection and project planning.
| Species | Green Density | Dried Density | Shrinkage | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern White Pine | 35 lbs/ft3 | 25 lbs/ft3 | 6% | Construction, millwork |
| Southern Yellow Pine | 45 lbs/ft3 | 32 lbs/ft3 | 8% | Framing, plywood |
| White Oak | 55 lbs/ft3 | 47 lbs/ft3 | 10% | Flooring, furniture |
| Red Oak | 58 lbs/ft3 | 44 lbs/ft3 | 9% | Cabinets, trim |
| Sugar Maple | 50 lbs/ft3 | 43 lbs/ft3 | 9% | Flooring, sports equipment |
| Black Walnut | 48 lbs/ft3 | 38 lbs/ft3 | 8% | Fine furniture, veneer |
Lumber Scaling and Yield
Doyle Scale
- Most conservative scaling method
- Formula: ((Diameter - 4)2 x Length) / 16
- Accounts for slab and waste
- Commonly used in Eastern US
Sawmill Recovery
- Typical yield: 60-70% of log scale
- Depends on log quality and sawing method
- Grade lumber brings premium prices
- Defects reduce overall yield
Moisture Content Effects
Green Wood (Fresh Cut)
- 30-50% moisture content by weight
- Heaviest form of wood
- Requires significant drying time
- Higher transportation costs
Dried Wood
- Air-dried: 15-20% moisture content
- Kiln-dried: 6-12% moisture content
- Lighter and more stable
- Ready for construction use
Cite this page as:
Daniel, P. Log Weight Calculator. Available at: https://constructioncalculators.com/log-weight-calculator/. Accessed: October 25, 2026.