Log Weight Calculator
Estimate round log weight from length, diameter, taper, quantity, species, and wood condition.
This is a weight estimate, not a scale ticket. Moisture, bark, knots, rot, and log shape can move the real weight.
Results
This estimates round log weight from volume and density. Real log weight varies with taper, bark, knots, rot, species, moisture, and exact shape.
How to use this calculator
- 01Choose average diameter or small/large end diameter mode.
- 02Enter log length, diameter, and quantity.
- 03Pick a species and condition, or enter a custom density.
- 04Read weight per log, total weight, volume, density used, and the taper note.
If you are measuring stacked firewood or cords instead of individual logs, use the Firewood Calculator. If you need board-foot volume for lumber, use the Board Foot Calculator.
Understanding the math
Log weight is volume times density. Average diameter mode treats the log as a round cylinder. Small/large diameter mode averages the end diameters first, which is a simple way to handle taper.
diameter = average_diameter radius = diameter / 2
average_diameter = (small_end_diameter + large_end_diameter) / 2 radius = average_diameter / 2
volume = pi x radius^2 x length weight_per_log = volume x density
total_weight = weight_per_log x quantity
Density presets are estimating values. Use a scale ticket, mill sheet, or supplier density when you have one.
Log density reference
Use these active-unit density examples as rough starting points. Green logs usually weigh more than dry logs because of water content.
| Species | Green estimate | Dry estimate | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine | 36 lb/cu ft | 28 lb/cu ft | Softwood |
| Red oak | 63 lb/cu ft | 44 lb/cu ft | Hardwood |
| White oak | 63 lb/cu ft | 47 lb/cu ft | Hardwood |
| Maple | 56 lb/cu ft | 44 lb/cu ft | Hardwood |
| Poplar | 46 lb/cu ft | 29 lb/cu ft | Light hardwood |
| Cedar | 31 lb/cu ft | 23 lb/cu ft | Softwood |
| Douglas fir | 38 lb/cu ft | 33 lb/cu ft | Softwood |
Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate the weight of a log?
Estimate the log volume from length and diameter, then multiply that volume by wood density. This calculator uses the selected species and condition density for the weight estimate.
How much does an oak log weigh?
Oak logs are usually heavier than pine because oak is denser. Green oak can weigh much more than dry oak, so choose oak, red oak, or white oak and set the condition before comparing weights.
How much does a pine log weigh?
Pine is usually lighter than oak, but moisture and pine species still matter. Use the pine preset with the log length, diameter, quantity, and condition for a practical estimate.
What is the difference between green and dry log weight?
Green logs contain more water, so they weigh more. As logs dry, water leaves the wood and the weight drops.
Can I calculate the weight of multiple logs?
Yes. Enter the quantity for similar logs. For mixed lengths, diameters, species, or conditions, calculate each group separately and add the totals.
Why is log weight only an estimate?
Logs are not perfect cylinders. Taper, bark, knots, rot, moisture, species, and natural density variation all change the real scale weight.
Can I use this calculator with metric measurements?
Yes. Use the Imperial/Metric toggle. Inputs, results, reference values, and examples follow the active unit system.
Related calculators
Firewood Calculator
Estimate stacked firewood cords, loose firewood volume, face cords or ricks, planning quantity, and optional cost.
Board Foot Calculator
Calculate board feet, lumber volume, and optional cost for dimensional lumber and rough-sawn boards.
Plywood Calculator
Estimate plywood sheet count from project area, sheet size, waste, optional weight, and optional cost.