How is timber priced in the UK?

Softwood from timber merchants is usually priced per linear metre at a given cross-section size (e.g. £3.50/m for 47×100mm C16). Hardwood is often priced per board foot or per cubic metre. Sheet goods are priced per sheet. Prices vary significantly between merchants.

Is VAT charged on timber?

Yes, timber in the UK is subject to 20% VAT. Trade merchants usually display prices ex-VAT while retail shops often include VAT. This calculator lets you toggle VAT on or off depending on how your merchant quotes.

What does C16 and C24 mean for timber?

C16 and C24 are strength grades for structural softwood under BS EN 338. C24 is stronger and more expensive. For non-structural woodworking projects, the grading matters less than the wood quality (straightness, knots, moisture content).

How can I get the best timber prices?

Buy in bulk for discounts, compare at least 3 timber merchants, consider rough-sawn over planed if you have a thicknesser, and look for pack deals on common sizes. Online timber merchants can sometimes offer better prices than local yards.

WoodCalcs

Timber Cost Calculator — Estimate Lumber Costs

Calculate the total cost of timber based on quantity and your price per unit. Supports per metre, board foot, cubic metre, and per piece pricing.

Pricing MethodChoose the input method that suits your situation

Price per linear metre

Thickness

Cross-section thickness (optional for this pricing method)

Width

Cross-section width of the board (mm)

Length

Length of each piece (mm)

Quantity

Number of items needed

Include VAT (20%)

Add VAT to the estimate (rate adjustable under Advanced options)

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates timber costs based on your chosen pricing method.

Pricing methods

Per linear metre: Price × (length in mm ÷ 1000)
Per board foot: Price × board feet (from thickness, width, length)
Per cubic metre: Price × volume in m³
Per piece: Flat price per board

VAT

When VAT is enabled, the chosen VAT rate is added to the subtotal. It defaults to 20% (the current UK standard rate), but you can change it under Advanced options — the result labels update to show the rate you actually used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Board Feet Calculator

Calculate board footage from timber dimensions for lumber purchasing.

Timber Volume Calculator

Work out the volume of timber in cubic metres or cubic feet.

Sheet Goods Calculator

Calculate how many plywood, MDF, or chipboard sheets you need.

Plank Calculator

Work out the number of planks needed to cover a given area.

Wood Weight Calculator

Estimate the weight of timber based on species and dimensions.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify measurements and material quantities before cutting or purchasing.