Dimensional Lumber Sizes
Dimensional lumber is the industry standard for construction and woodworking projects. However, actual lumber dimensions differ from their nominal sizes due to the milling process. Understanding these sizes helps contractors, builders, and homeowners choose the right materials for their projects.
Standard Lengths: 3- to 22-ft boards.
| Nominal Size | Real Size ‒ Inch |
| 1 x 2 | 3/4” x 1-1/2” |
| 1 x 3 | 3/4” x 2-3/4” |
| 1 x 4 | 3/4” x 3-1/2” |
| 1 x 6 | 3/4” x 5-1/2” |
| 1 x 8 | 3/4” x 7-1/4” |
| 1 x 10 | 3/4” x 9-1/4” |
| 1 x 12 | 3/4” x 11-1/4” |
| 5/4 x 4 | 1” x 3-1/2” |
| 5/4 x 6 | 1” x 5-1/2” |
| 5/4 x 8 | 1” x 7-1/4” |
| 5/4 x 10 | 1” x 9-1/4” |
| 5/4 x 12 | 1” x 11-1/4” |
| 2 x 2 | 1-1/2” x 1-1/2” |
| 2 x 4 | 1-1/2” x 3-1/2” |
| 2 x 6 | 1-1/2” x 5-1/2” |
| 2 x 8 | 1-1/2” x 7-1/4” |
| 2 x 10 | 1-1/2” x 9-1/4” |
| 2 x 12 | 1-1/2” x 11-1/4” |
| 3 x 6 | 2-1/2” x 5-1/2” |
| 3 x 8 | 2-1/2” x 7-1/4” |
| 3 x 10 | 2-1/2” x 9-1/4” |
| 3 x 12 | 2-1/2” x 11-1/4” |
| 4 x 4 | 3-1/2” x 3-1/2” |
| 4 x 6 | 3-1/2” x 5-1/2” |
| 4 x 8 | 3-1/2” x 7-1/4” |
| 4 x 10 | 3-1/2” x 9-1/4” |
| 4 x 12 | 3-1/2” x 11-1/4” |
| 6 x 6 | 5-1/2” x 5-1/2” |
| 8 x 8 | 7-1/4” x 7-1/4” |
Why Do Nominal and Actual Sizes Differ?
The nominal size refers to the original cut before drying and milling. As lumber is processed, it shrinks to its actual dimensions.
Custom Milling Available
With the largest in-stock hardwood inventory in North America and the ability to custom mill anything for you, there’s nothing we can’t do to help you nail your next job.
