See full list on engineersedge. com However, there is a difference between the nominal size (what the lumber is referred to) and the actual size. After the lumber is processed (dried and planed), the actual size is smaller than the nominal size. What is a lumber size chart based on? Learn about dimensional lumber and nominal vs. · understanding actual vs nominal lumber dimensions , how lumber is manufactured, and the purchasing considerations, you’ll be able to select and work with lumber more accurately on your next project. Is dimensional lumber smaller than nominal size? I also explain why they are different. · a comprehensive chart that shows nominal lumber dimensions and their actual sizes in inches and millimeters. How do you determine dimensional lumber size? The following is a detailed lumber size chart based on the nominal sizes commonly used in construction. Grades standardize the quality of lumber at different levels and are based on moisture content, size and manufacture at the time of grading, shipping and unloading by the buyer. · what is dimensional lumber and how does its size system work? · dimensional lumber is cut to a specific length, width, and depth. · find the actual size of different types of lumber and learn why the actual size of dimensional lumber is smaller than the nominal size. For instance, a 2×4 has an actual size of 1. 5 inches by 3. 5 inches. The tables below provide both the nominal and actual lumber dimensions for many common north american lumber sizes. What is dimensional lumber?