All About Lumber

Nominal Size vs. Actual Size

Nominal size refers to the size of the board before the drying and planing process. So if you are purchasing lumber that is 2 x 4 inches, you are really getting the shrunken version of that lumber, which is roughly 1-1/2 by 3-1/2 inches. See the chart below for more approximations.

Lumber & Boards Usage

The chart below specifies the uses for lumber and boards in relation to their sizes. The uses for boards applies to all 1 x 2 to 1 x 12 sizes, while the framing lumber sizes each have specific applications. Sizes are represented in inches and in nominal form (see above for actual sizes).

---

Dry Lumber vs. Green Lumber

Dry lumber is also known as “seasoned.” It can be dried in kiln-dried or air dried. The purpose of drying is to prevent shrinkage and warping after construction. Green lumber is freshly cut with no drying process. It is high in moisture and prone to warp as it naturally dries.

Dry Lumber

Lumber that has been dried through either evaporation (air dry) or forced via kiln-dried and heat treatment to 19% (or less) moisture content. Dry lumber is more resistant to rot and insects, and is easier to paint or stain.

Green Lumber

Lumber that has been recently milled, and not seasoned or dried, whether from evaporation or forced via kiln – thus containing more moisture. The main reasons for using green lumber is for its cost, flexibility, and ease of use.

---

Dimensional Lumber Classes

Dimensional lumber is finished/planed and cut to standard widths and depths. It is categorized based on size classification and used in constructing the wall, floor, and roof framing of a structure.

---