On Sun, 11 Mar 2007 20:28:25 -0700, "Eigenvector"
wrote:


wrote in message
roups.com...

The dimension of lumber is the dimension before it is planed to make
it smooth.

It's like the quarter pound burger is a quarter pound before cooking.

If you want the true dimension of the lumber you need to buy it rough
sawn.

I don't buy the hamburger argument for a second, but I won't argue it
because I'm sure you don't shill for the lumber industry and find it just as
irritating as everyone else.

That really hacks me off sometimes. Yes, it's no big deal when buying 2x4s
or construction lumber, precision isn't really required of it. But
something like cedar or oak or material that is chosen for its looks not
it's structural strength.

Is there at least a consistent dimension that can be assumed from the
measurments? Can you ALWAYS assume "x" inches removed from the advertised
dimension or does that depend of other factors as well? So if I buy a 2x4,
can I ALWAYS presume it's 1 5/8" x 3 1/2" (or whatever it really is) and
likewise 1x2 is 5/8" x 1 1/2"

With the caveat that wood changes sizes with water content:
It varies by what the nominal size is, but it should be consistant
for any given name. (Thus, all 2x4s should be the same size.)
You can find a table of nominal/true sizes in Glover's Handbook,
or online.