Material Weight Calculator

Calculate the weight of steel, aluminum, wood, and other materials. Essential for material handling, shipping estimates, and structural planning.

Material Type

Shape

Dimensions

Results

Total Weight -- lbs
Weight (kg) -- kg
Per Piece -- lbs
Volume -- in³
Density Used -- lb/in³

Summary

Material Densities

Materiallb/in³
Steel0.283
Stainless0.289
Aluminum0.098
Brass0.307
Copper0.323
Oak0.028
Pine0.020

Quick Reference

Steel plate:

  • 1/8" = 5.1 lb/ft²
  • 1/4" = 10.2 lb/ft²
  • 3/8" = 15.3 lb/ft²
  • 1/2" = 20.4 lb/ft²

Steel round bar:

  • 1" dia = 2.67 lb/ft
  • 2" dia = 10.68 lb/ft

Wood Notes

Wood density varies by:

  • Species
  • Moisture content
  • Growth conditions

Values shown are for air-dried lumber (~12% MC). Green wood is significantly heavier.

Handling Guidelines

  • <50 lbs: One person lift
  • 50-100 lbs: Two person or equipment
  • >100 lbs: Mechanical assistance required

Frequently Asked Questions

For metals, accuracy is typically within 1-2% using standard density values. Actual weight can vary slightly due to alloy composition and manufacturing tolerances. For wood, actual weight varies more due to moisture content and natural variation.

Wood density depends on species, growing conditions, and moisture content. Green (freshly cut) wood can weigh 50-100% more than kiln-dried wood. Air-dried lumber (around 12% moisture) is used for these calculations. Actual weights can vary ±15% from calculated values.

Standard softwood plywood: 3/4" sheet weighs about 60-70 lbs. 1/2" sheet weighs about 40-48 lbs. 1/4" sheet weighs about 22-25 lbs. Baltic birch and hardwood plywood are denser and heavier. MDF is heavier still at about 96 lbs for a 3/4" 4x8 sheet.

Aluminum is approximately 1/3 the weight of steel (about 35% as dense). A steel part weighing 10 lbs would weigh about 3.5 lbs in aluminum of the same dimensions. This is why aluminum is popular for weight-sensitive applications.