What are nominal lumber sizes?
Lumber sizes are usually given in “nominal” measurements. The nominal measurements are a board’s size before it has been planed smooth (surfaced) on all 4 sides. The actual measurements are the final size.
Why are lumber nominal and actual sizes different?
The “nominal” cross-section dimensions of a piece of lumber, such as 2 X 4 or 1 X 6, are always somewhat larger than the actual, or dressed, dimensions. The reason is that dressed lumber has been surfaced or planed smooth on four sides (called S4S). The nominal measurement is made before the lumber is surfaced.
What is the nominal size of a 2×4?
1-1/2 inches by
Because a nominal 2×4 board is really 1-1/2 inches by 3-1/2 inches. In fact, 2x4s are never 2x4s these days. A nominal 2×4 board starts out 1.56 in. x 3.58 in.
How big is a 2×6?
Nominal vs. Actual Measurements of Dimension Lumber
| Nominal Size | Actual Size |
|---|---|
| 2 x 3 | 1 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches (38 x 64 mm) |
| 2 x 4 | 1 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches (38 x 89 mm) |
| 2 x 6 | 1 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches (38 x 140 mm) |
| 2 x 8 | 1 1/2 x 7 1/4 inches (38 x 184 mm) |
What does nominal mean in size?
Measurement. In manufacturing, a nominal size or trade size is a size “in name only” used for identification. The nominal size may not match any dimension of the product, but within the domain of that product the nominal size may correspond to a large number of highly standardized dimensions and tolerances.
Why is a 2×4 not really 2×4?
DIMENSIONAL LUMBER: In the past, when a timber was called a 2×4 [or “two-by-four”], it actually measured 2 inches by 4 inches. Because of this extra milling, a 2×4 no longer measures a full 2 inches by four inches. Instead, a 2×4 is really only 1 1/2″ by 3 1/2″.
How do you calculate nominal size?
The nominal thickness of hardwood lumber is based on the quarter scale, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4, etc. The rough size can be found by dividing the numerator by the denominator. For example, 8/4 lumber is roughly 2” thick (8 divided by 4 equals 2). But once again, the quarter-scale is the nominal thickness.
What is nominal thickness?
Nominal thickness is “in name only” used solely for identification. The nominal size may not match any dimension of the product, but within the domain of that product. The nominal size may correspond to a large number of highly standardized dimensions and tolerances.
When did lumber become nominal size?
Early concepts called for rough lumber to be of full nominal size, often in the dry condition. After World War I, the increasing demand for construction lumber led to the first national size standard in 1924. This was revised in 1926, 1928, 1939, and 1953, while still another revision is proposed for adoption in 1964.
What is nominal size?
When did lumber dimensions change from actual to nominal?
The move from actual size to nominal sizes wasn’t not an instant industry change that took place overnight. Rather, it was something that changed over time. It’s estimated that this transition occurred in the early 1900’s when demand for lumber was starting to increase.
What is the actual size of 2×4 lumber?
Often asked: What is the actual size of 2×4 lumber? By Benjamin Noah December 19, 2021. The real size of a 2×4 is actually about 1.5×3. 5. When the plank is first roughly sawn into the trunk, it is a true 2×4, but the drying process and planing of the plank reduces it to the finished size of 1.5×3.5.
How thick is 8 4 lumber?
If you are in a time crunch we have Pre-milled Hardwood & softwood lumber on hand. If you are building custom furniture, cabinetry, or working on a boat we have the right woods for you too. 8/4 – Full Rough = 2″ thick 8/4 – Hit and Missed Planed = 1-15/16″ thick 8/4 – Surfaced and Straight lined = 1-3/4″ thick. 12/4 – Full Rough = 3″
What is the difference between nominal and dimensional lumber?
Walnut. Walnut is a hard,strong and durable wood for furniture.…