You may be surprised to learn that there's a difference between the market size of lumber and the actual size, I.e., Nominal vs. actual Lumber. Have you ever bought a piece of wood only to find out that it doesn't fit? But you took the right measurement, so why doesn't it fit perfectly?

When working with wood projects, it's important to learn the discrepancy between Nominal and Actual Lumber Size.

Nominal Vs Actual Lumber 

The main discrepancy between nominal vs actual lumber is the size difference. Nominal size is the dimensions given on the piece of lumber when you purchase it. But actual lumber is the real size of the wood. But why is there a difference?

When a piece of wood is cut from a tree it is the right size. But before it can be sold, it needs to be dried and surfaced. This can cause the wood to shrink and shorten. This is why the nominal size of lumber is also slightly larger than the actual size. 

Softwood Vs Hardwood 

Before we get further into the Difference Between Nominal vs. actual Lumber, let's take a look at softwood and hardwood. It is important to learn about these types of wood to accurately assess the actual lumber. 

Softwood 

• Softwood includes woods like pine, cedar, redwood, Douglas fir, etc. Softwood is used for windows and door framing, interior moldings, producing sheet goods, etc. It is light-coloured and usually soft.

• Softwood is sized by its thickness and width. Sometimes length is also mentioned. 

For example 2 inches (width) × 4 inches (thickness) × 96 inches (length) 

Softwood Dimensions 

Dimensional difference between Nominal Vs. Actual Lumber in softwood is given below. The difference in length between nominal and actual can differ by 3 inches. Actual length can be 3 inches longer than nominal.

• 6 feet (75 inches)

• 8 feet (99 inches)

• 10 feet (123 inches)

• 12 feet (147 inches)

• 14 feet (171 inches)

• 16 feet (195 inches)

In case of width and thickness is measured in inches as follows:

Nominal Vs Actual 

• 1×2 ¾ × 1-½

• 1×3 ¾ × 2-½

• 1×4 ¾ × 3-½

• 1x6 ¾ × 5-½

• 1×8 ¾ × 7-¼

• 1×10 ¾ × 9-¼

• 1×12 ¾ × 11-¼

Hardwood 

• Hardwood includes oak, mahogany, teak, maple, etc. It is darker in color and has a higher density than softwood. It is mostly used for constructing large construction projects.

• Hardwood sizing is also different from softwood sizing. Hardwoods are measured and sold in broad feet. It also depends on if the stock is surfaced on one side (S1S) or surfaced on two sides (S2S). 

Hardwood Dimensions

Nominal vs Actual (S1S - S2S)

• 1/2 3/8 S1S - 5/16 S2S

• 5/8 1/2 S1S- 7/16 S2S

• 3/4 5/8 S1S - 9/16 S2S

• 1(4/4) 7/8 S1S - 13/16 S2S

• 11/4 11/8 S1S - 11/6 S2S

• 11/2 13/8 S1S - 15/16 S2S

Tips for Precise Lumber Takeoff  

For any lumber project, accurate takeoffs are pivotal. To make sure that takeoff calculations are correct, ensure that you completely understand the lumber requirements of a project. Takeoff refers to calculating the number of materials required for the project. 

• Decide what type of wood you want to use and how you want to use it. 

• Take accurate measurements of the construction site and double-check the dimensions to make sure that they are correct.

• Factor in the nominal and actual lumber to calculate how much you need to purchase.

Lumber Estimating Expert

If going DIY is not a feasible option then you can always rely on a professional. Even some contractors are relying on Lumber Estimating Expert for a precise takeoff. Lumber calculation involves various components that need comprehensive knowledge to be predicted accurately.

A professional takeoff calculator uses software for the accurate process. On Screen Takeoff, Planswift, Stack, etc are the most widely used software for precise takeoff. 

That is why hiring professionals from a reliable Estimating Company is a practical way to go. They make sure to meticulously account for each component based on the precise needs of a project. SMA Estimating LLC is the most popular lumber estimating agency out there.

To Conclude  

To conclude it all, Nominal vs. actual Lumber sizes play a significant role in acquiring wood for wood projects. It might be confusing if you are new to woodwork. But remember that, in any market, nominal sizes are given and you have to make sure that you hire a professional who makes sure that the required amount of lumber is sufficient. This article provides you with all the essential pointers to make sure that wood is calculated precisely as per a project's requirements. Along with the tips on how to precisely perform lumber takeoff.