Don't get the two mixed up or you'll really be confused. If you can stop someone in the store to help explain the inconsistency, they'll start throwing around a few words like "nominal sizes" and "actual sizes" and "softwood lumber" and "hardwood lumber." Hopefully they will take the time to explain exactly what these words mean, which will go a long way towards making you feel more comfortable about buying wood.įor starters, you'll need to know that softwood (like pine, spruce, and fir) is measured and sold one way, and hardwood (like oak, maple, and cherry) is measured and sold in a totally different way. Measure the actual width and thickness of a pine board (like a 2x4) and then look at the sign above the rack. On your next trip to Home Depot or Lowes, take along a tape measure and head over to the dimensional lumber aisles. Index cards come in different sizes, but some of the most common ones include 3×5 inches, 4×6 inches, and 5×8 inches. For example, a 2×4 actual dimensions measure 1-1/2 inches by 3-1/2 inches. It’s also the most common lumber for building as it’s ready to use and universally consistent in sizing. ![]() That means a 2x10 is actually 1 1/2 inch in thickness by 9 1/4 inches. Actual lumber is sawn, planed, and smoothed, and it’s generally made ready for many applications. The larger 2x boards (2x8, 2x10, etc.) lose 3/4 inch in width. That means a 2 x 4 board is actually 1-1/2 inches by 3-1/2 inches. 2x Board SizesĢx4 and 2圆 boards lose 1/2 inch in thickness and 1/2 inch in width before leaving the mill. That means a 1x10 is actually 3/4 inch in thickness by 9 1/4 inches. The larger 1x boards (1x8, 1x10, etc.) lose 3/4 inch in width. ![]() That means a 1 x 4 board is actually 3/4 inches by 3 1/2 inches. 1x4 and 1圆 boards lose 1/4 inch in thickness and 1/2 inch in width before leaving the mill.
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