About 2x4 Lumber

The sizes, dimensions and length of lumber can be confusing. Just because a particular cut of lumber is named by its size, does not mean that the lumber exactly measures that size. When planning your project it is important to know the exact dimensions of your wood before you start to facilitate a quality finished product.

A common cut of lumber available from lumber yards, home improvement stores and other retail and wholesale outlets is referred to as 2x4s or 2x4 lumber.

What is 2x4 Lumber?

• The name "2x4" refers to the size of the board.


• Lumber in this category generally measures 2 inches thick by 4 inches wide.


• It is available in standard lengths of 6 feet, 8 feet, 12 feet and sometimes 14 feet.


• Some retailers cut nonstandard lengths and charge by the foot.


• The finished product does not measure exactly 2 inches by 4 inches.
  
  

Rough Cut 2x4 Lumber

• This type of lumber measures closest to 2 inches by 4 inches.


• Rough cut refers to the first cutting of the board from the unprocessed timber. This creates a piece of lumber with almost exact measurements and a splintery, rough surface.


• As the wood cures it loses its natural moisture, causing the wood to compress, or shrink, slightly. This slightly alters the measurement of the lumber product.
  
  

Dressed 2x4 Lumber

• Lumber with a smooth finish is referred to as dressed or surfaced. 


• Dressed lumber is created when a rough cut board is passed through a planer. The planer removes a very thin layer of wood, creating a smooth finish.


• Lumber can be dressed on all four sides or only two.


• Dressing changes the actual size* of the lumber product, even though it is still "named" by its original, rough cut measurement.


• A piece of 2x4 lumber that has been dressed on all four sides has an actual measurement of approximately 1.5 inches thick by 3.5 inches wide.

*Actual size is the true measurement of the wood.