Standard 2x4 dimensions. Lumber is cut by ripsaw or resaw to create dimensions that are not usually processed by a primary sawmill. Re sawing is the splitting of 1 inch through 12 inch hardwood or softwood lumber into two or more thinner. The most common dimensions of wall studs are 2 by 6 and 2 by 4. We show you the quick translation to actual numbers including 2x4.
Dont be confused by nominal board dimensions when you buy lumber or read plans. Demand for lumber in world war ii led to the shipment and use of large quantities of lumber dressed green to standard sizes. This was revised in 1926 1928 1939 and 1953 while still another revision is proposed for adoption in 1964. These numbers can vary slightly but modern lumber manufacturers are pretty adept at delivering consistently sized supplies of dimensional lumber.
Specifically it is lumber cut for industrial or wood packaging use. At the lumberyard board sizes are typically given in nominal dimensions but those arent the true sizes. In homes with 9 foot walls the studs are 104 58 inches. However there is a difference between the nominal size what the lumber is referred to and the actual size.
What is a 2x4s real size. This chart shows the nominal in name only and corresponding actual real dimensions of common wood sizes like 24 dimensions and 14 lumber. Hence what started out as a 2 x 4 now measures 1 12 inches x 3 12 inches. The tables below provide both the nominal and actual sizes so many common north american lumber sizes.
2x4s are not actually 2 inches by 4 inches. Which means for example three 2x4 boards laid side by side will not measure a foot across. Re manufactured lumber is the result of secondary or tertiary processingcutting of previously milled lumber. Once the drying is complete the boards are then planed to a standard size.
Lumber led to the first national size standard in 1924. Wall studs for standard walls of 8 feet are 92 58 inches. Get free shipping on qualified 2x4 products or buy online pick up in store today.