Just talked to my dad who's been in construction in his whole life (mainly electrics, but building houses etc. in his free time). Apparently back in the day 2x4" wood was 2x4", but nowadays it's 45mm x 95mm, not even close. At least here in Sweden. Is it like that everywhere or is 2x4 2x4" in the countries that uses feet, inch & etc?
2x4
Originally posted at johnlsayers.com, topic 6259.
True. 2x4 is the "nominal" size, where 1½x3½ is its "actual" size.
See Wikipedia » Timber » Dimensional Lumber.
Yeah, 2x4 is the rough cut size. Now it's planed down on all 4 sides making it 1/2" short.
Well, you learn something new everyday :D
In fact, these days a "2x4 doesn't even START at that size; newer "head rigs" (sawmill term for the saw that actually cuts the logs into boards) is all computer controlled, and is no longer a circular saw but a large band saw. The thinner blade allows the wood to be cut to less than 1/8" over the finished size of 1.5" x 3.5", the kerf (thickness of cut, a function of blade thickness) is typically only a little under 1/8".
Only in cabinet making are "stated" dimensions the same as "actual" dimensions these days... Steve