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Standard sizes for dimensional lumber range from 2″ x 4″ to 2″ x 12″. However, sizing is nominal, and the actual sizes of the lumber are typically 1/2″ to 3/4″ smaller.
The typical nominal dimensions for wood, such as 2 x 4, refer to the thickness and the width of the wood. If a third number is added onto the nominal dimensions, such as 2 x 4 x 96, it indicates the length of the wood.
While lumber sizes might seem simple to understand, there’s actually some nuance. The board commonly known as a 2×4 isn’t actually 2″x4″; its actual dimensions are 1.5″x3.5″, with a common span being 8′. If you’re using the metric system, a standard US 2×4 is 38mm x 90mm.
This chart shows the nominal (in name only) and corresponding actual (real) dimensions of common wood sizes like 2×4 dimensions and 1×4 lumber. Note: You can download and print the chart from Additional Information below.
Here's everything you need to know about 2x4 lumber! What are the actual dimensions of a 2x4, the best saw to cut 2 by 4 wood, what screws to use in a 2x4 and project ideas to get you started!
Dimensional lumber is a wood fiber that is cut to a specific thickness, width, and length based on predefined and standardized sizes. Some examples of lumber dimensions include 2 x 4s and 4 x 4s. You should also understand the different measurements for hardwood and softwood.
Today, a 2×4 is actually 1.5 inches by 3.5 inches. These dimensions are widely recognized and used in construction projects around the world. The nominal sizing system simplifies communication and design, ensuring that when someone asks for a 2×4, everyone knows the actual size to expect. Conclusion.
Dimensional lumber has two size categories for width and thickness: nominal size and actual size. Dimensional lumber is wood lumber cut to pre-defined, standard sizes. A two-by-four (2x4) is an example of dimensional lumber.
Dimensional lumber is cut to a specific length, width, and depth. However, there is a difference between the nominal size (what the lumber is referred to) and the actual size. The tables below provide both the nominal and actual lumber dimensions for many common North American lumber sizes.
For example, common measurements, like 2×4, are simply a name that refers to lumber dimensions, but the cross-section dimensions of a piece of lumber are almost always slightly larger than the actual dimensions. In reality, a 2×4 actual size measures 1-1/2 inches by 3-1/2 inches.