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Cost Per Linear Foot Formula:
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Cost per linear foot is a measurement used to determine the price of materials or services based on their length. It's commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and retail for items like lumber, piping, fencing, and flooring.
The calculator uses a simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: This calculation divides the total cost by the total length to determine how much each foot costs.
Details: Calculating cost per linear foot helps in budgeting, comparing prices between suppliers, and estimating project costs. It's particularly useful when materials are sold in varying lengths or when comparing different product options.
Tips: Enter the total cost in dollars and the length in feet. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will automatically compute the cost per linear foot.
Q1: When should I use cost per linear foot instead of cost per square foot?
A: Use cost per linear foot for materials that are sold by length (like lumber, pipes, or cables) and cost per square foot for materials that cover area (like flooring or roofing).
Q2: How does width affect cost per linear foot?
A: Cost per linear foot doesn't account for width. For wider materials, you might need more linear feet to cover the same area, so always consider both dimensions when comparing options.
Q3: Can I use this for services like installation?
A: Yes, if services are priced by length (e.g., $X per foot of fencing installed), this calculation works the same way.
Q4: How accurate is this calculation for bulk purchases?
A: Very accurate, as long as you have the correct total cost and length. Remember that bulk purchases often come with discounts that affect the total cost.
Q5: What's a typical cost per linear foot for common materials?
A: This varies widely. For example, basic lumber might be $1-5/ft, while specialty piping could be $20-100/ft. Always get current quotes for your specific materials.