Construction and woodworking calculators, charts and guides

Builderology works out the numbers behind building and shop projects: how much concrete, lumber or drywall to buy, which drill bit to use for a tap, how hard and heavy a wood species is, and what the codes say about stairs, railings and ramps. Every tool shows its method, and our methodology page explains where the numbers come from and how they are tested.

Construction Calculators

Estimate materials for concrete, framing, roofing, decks, drywall and finishes. See all calculators.

Woodworking and Shop Math

Board feet, cut lists, joinery layout, wood movement and machine speeds.

Wood Species Database

Hardness, density, strength, shrinkage and decay resistance for common species, from the USDA Wood Handbook. Browse all species.

Thread, Tap and Fastener Charts

Tap drill sizes, thread pitches, clearance holes, pilot holes and torque. See all charts.

Building Code Guides

Plain explanations of common residential, OSHA and ADA requirements, with insulation levels by climate zone. Always check the code your local building department has adopted. See all code guides.