Log Weight Calculator

Timber Weight & Volume Calculator

Calculate log weight, volume, and cost for timber projects. Essential for loggers, sawmills, and construction professionals to estimate wood weight and transportation costs.

Examples

Click on any example to load it into the calculator.

Pine Log

pine

Standard pine log with typical dimensions and density for construction projects.

Diameter: 14 in

Length: 20 ft

Density: 30 lb/ft³

Quantity: 1

Price per Pound: $0.12

Oak Log

oak

Heavy oak log with high density, commonly used for furniture and flooring.

Diameter: 16 in

Length: 18 ft

Density: 45 lb/ft³

Quantity: 3

Price per Pound: $0.25

Cedar Log

cedar

Lightweight cedar log with low density, ideal for outdoor projects and decking.

Diameter: 12 in

Length: 16 ft

Density: 23 lb/ft³

Quantity: 8

Price per Pound: $0.18

Weight Only Calculation

weight

Calculate log weight without pricing information for transportation planning.

Diameter: 18 in

Length: 24 ft

Density: 40 lb/ft³

Quantity: 2

Other Titles
Understanding Log Weight Calculator: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn how to calculate log weight, understand timber measurements, and estimate costs for your logging and construction projects.

What is Log Weight Calculation?

  • The Importance of Accurate Weight Estimation
  • Understanding Log Volume and Density
  • Applications in Forestry and Construction
Log weight calculation is essential for forestry operations, sawmills, and construction projects. It helps determine transportation costs, equipment requirements, and project planning. The weight of a log depends on its volume and the density of the wood species.
The Log Weight Formula
The basic formula for calculating log weight is: Weight = Volume × Density. The volume of a cylindrical log is calculated using: Volume = π × (Diameter/2)² × Length. This gives us the volume in cubic feet, which is then multiplied by the wood density in pounds per cubic foot.
Why Calculate Log Weight?
Accurate weight calculations are crucial for transportation planning, equipment selection, and cost estimation. Overestimating weight can lead to unnecessary costs, while underestimating can cause safety issues and equipment damage.

Key Concepts:

  • Log weight = Volume × Wood density
  • Volume = π × (Diameter/2)² × Length
  • Different wood species have different densities

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Log Weight Calculator

  • Measuring Your Logs
  • Determining Wood Density
  • Understanding Your Results
This calculator helps you determine the weight, volume, and cost of logs for your projects. Follow these steps to get accurate measurements and cost estimates.
1. Measure Your Log Dimensions
Start by measuring the diameter and length of your log. Diameter should be measured in inches at the widest point, typically at the base. Length should be measured in feet along the center axis of the log.
2. Determine Wood Density
Research the density of your wood species in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³). Common densities range from 20-50 lb/ft³, with softwoods generally being lighter than hardwoods.
3. Enter Quantity and Pricing
Specify how many logs you have with the same dimensions and wood species. If you know the price per pound, enter it to calculate total costs.

Measurement Tips:

  • Measure diameter at the widest point of the log
  • Use a tape measure for accurate length measurement
  • Consult wood density charts for accurate values

Real-World Applications of Log Weight Calculation

  • Forestry and Logging Operations
  • Sawmill and Processing Facilities
  • Construction and Transportation
Log weight calculations are used across various industries and applications, from initial harvesting to final processing and transportation.
Forestry and Logging
Loggers use weight calculations to determine equipment requirements, plan transportation routes, and estimate harvesting costs. Accurate weight estimates help optimize truck loads and reduce transportation expenses.
Sawmill Operations
Sawmills use log weight calculations for inventory management, pricing, and production planning. Weight-based pricing is common in the timber industry.
Construction Projects
Construction professionals use log weight calculations for structural timber projects, decking, and other wood-based construction elements.

Industry Applications:

  • Transportation planning and cost estimation
  • Equipment selection and capacity planning
  • Pricing and inventory management

Common Misconceptions and Correct Methods

  • Volume vs. Weight Confusion
  • Density Variations
  • Measurement Accuracy
Several misconceptions exist about log weight calculation that can lead to inaccurate estimates and poor planning decisions.
Volume vs. Weight
A common mistake is confusing volume with weight. Two logs with the same volume can have very different weights depending on their wood density. Always consider both factors in your calculations.
Density Variations
Wood density can vary significantly within the same species due to factors like moisture content, growth conditions, and tree age. Use average density values for your calculations.
Measurement Accuracy
Logs are rarely perfect cylinders. Measure diameter at multiple points and use the average, or measure at the widest point for a conservative estimate.

Common Mistakes:

  • Using volume alone without considering density
  • Not accounting for moisture content variations
  • Measuring diameter at only one point

Mathematical Derivation and Examples

  • Cylindrical Volume Formula
  • Density and Weight Relationship
  • Practical Calculation Examples
Understanding the mathematical principles behind log weight calculation helps ensure accurate results and better decision-making.
Cylindrical Volume Formula
The volume of a cylinder is calculated using: V = πr²h, where r is the radius and h is the height. For logs, we use diameter instead of radius, so the formula becomes: V = π(D/2)²L, where D is diameter and L is length.
Weight Calculation
Once we have the volume, we multiply by the wood density: Weight = Volume × Density. This gives us the weight in pounds when using lb/ft³ for density.
Example Calculation
For a 16-inch diameter, 20-foot long pine log with 30 lb/ft³ density: Volume = π(8)²(20) = 4,021 cubic inches = 2.33 cubic feet. Weight = 2.33 × 30 = 70 pounds.

Mathematical Formulas:

  • Volume = π × (Diameter/2)² × Length
  • Weight = Volume × Wood Density
  • Total Weight = Single Log Weight × Quantity