log weight calculator

Log Weight Calculator

🪵 Log Weight Calculator

lbs/ft³
Estimated Weight: -
Log Volume: -
Wood Density: -
Note: This calculator provides estimates based on the assumption of a perfectly cylindrical log. Actual weights may vary due to moisture content, wood density variations, and irregular log shapes. Green (freshly cut) wood typically weighs 30-50% more than seasoned wood.

Getting Started

When you open the calculator, you’ll see a clean, user-friendly interface with several input fields and buttons. The process is straightforward and takes just a few steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Enter Log Diameter

  • Type the width/diameter of your log in the first input field
  • Use the dropdown menu to select your preferred unit (inches, centimeters, or feet)
  • Most users find inches or centimeters most convenient for measuring log diameter

2. Enter Log Length

  • Input how long your log is in the second field
  • Choose your unit from the dropdown (feet, inches, meters, or centimeters)
  • Feet or meters work well for longer logs, while inches/centimeters suit shorter pieces

3. Choose Wood Type There are two ways to specify the wood:

Option A – Quick Selection (Recommended):

  • Click any of the wood species buttons (Oak, Pine, Maple, Cedar, Birch, Walnut, Cherry, or Ash)
  • The button will highlight in blue when selected
  • The density will automatically fill in based on typical values for that wood type

Option B – Custom Density:

  • If your wood type isn’t listed, manually enter the wood density in the “Wood density” field
  • The number represents pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft³)
  • You can find density values online for specific wood species

4. Calculate Results

  • Click the blue “Calculate Log Weight” button
  • Or simply press Enter on your keyboard
  • Results appear instantly below the button

Understanding Your Results

The calculator shows three key measurements:

Estimated Weight: The total weight of your log in both pounds and tons. This is your main result.

Log Volume: How much space the log occupies in cubic feet. Useful for storage planning.

Wood Density: Confirms the density value used in the calculation.

Helpful Tips

  • Measurements: Measure at the middle of the log for diameter, as logs often taper
  • Fresh vs. Seasoned Wood: The calculator uses seasoned (dried) wood densities. Fresh-cut wood weighs 30-50% more due to moisture content
  • Irregular Shapes: Results assume a perfectly round, straight log. Real logs may vary slightly
  • Multiple Logs: Calculate each log separately, then add the weights together

Example Usage

Let’s say you have an oak log that’s 12 inches in diameter and 8 feet long:

  1. Enter “12” in diameter, select “inches”
  2. Enter “8” in length, select “feet”
  3. Click the “Oak” button (density auto-fills to 47 lbs/ft³)
  4. Click “Calculate”
  5. Result: approximately 236 lbs