What Is The Actual Size Of A 2X4 Wood Member. However, there is a difference between the nominal size (what the lumber is referred to) and the actual size. A table of lumber sizes that includes the actual lumber sizes. There is a nominal and actual size.
Measure the actual width and thickness of a pine board (like a 2x4) and then look at the sign above 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.
I know from reading around that size wise this would roughly equate to the uk's 44 x 96 and 25 x 44 but it is my belief that in the us if someone refers to 'using a bit of 2 x 4' then more is understood than just the size. Table showing the nominal size and actual size of dimensional lumber in inches and millimeters. Let's look a little closer at a 2×4×8. Because the amount a board shrinks can vary by wood species, moisture content, and. There is a nominal and actual size. On your next trip to home depot or lowes, take along a tape measure and head over to the dimensional lumber aisles. However, there is a difference between the nominal size (what the lumber is referred to) and the actual size. Today, everyone in the construction industry knows that nominal size is not actual size—despite the fact that the 2x4 designation persists in the marketplace.