How to Measure Linear Feet for a Metal Roof

In building terms, a linear foot is equal to 12 inches of length. Linear feet measurements, which are also known as "board feet," are used to determine the amount of supplies needed for certain types of jobs. Although a linear foot doesn't denote the dimension of width, it does give information concerning the length of an area or an object. If you have a metal roof, you can find the linear feet of its surface by performing simple measurements and calculations.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Tape measure

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Climb onto the roof, using a ladder.

   • 2

     Attach the end of a tape measure to one end of the roof.

   • 3

     Extend the tape measure as you walk to the other end of the roof. Walk in a straight line.

   • 4

     Place the tape measure down so it is flush against the roof once you get to the other side. Read the measurement in inches.

   • 5

     Divide the length of the roof in inches by 12 to find the number of linear feet. For example, if the roof is 600 inches long, divide 600 by 12 to get 50 linear feet.