why do thay call a 2x4 a 2x4 when its really a 1x3 dont make much sence
2007-05-24 16:09:17 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Because " Back In The Old Days" it really did measure 2 X 4....the name was not changed just to maintain the old standards and avoid confusion.
2007-05-24 16:23:42 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
When a 2X4 is cut at the sawmill, it actually IS a rough cut 2X4. After planing to make it smooth and kiln drying removes most of the moisture from it the board ends up 1 1/2 X 3 1/2.
If you look at an old 2X4 that actually measures @ 2X4, you will notice that it is rough, with the saw marks still evident. People prefer to work with planed lumber- at least I do.
Interestingly, if a board's saw cuts are straight, it dates to about the 1870, when mills changed from beam saws to circular blades.
2007-05-24 16:44:27 · answer #2 · answered by donmohan2 4 · 4⤊ 0⤋
The wood is cut to 2" x 4", as it dries it shrinks...usually only about 1/4" per side. If your 2x4 measures 1x3, you are getting ripped off.
2007-05-24 20:25:16 · answer #3 · answered by Barbie C 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They DID used to be that exact size, but it is actually 1 1/2 X 3 1/2 for a very long time now.
Guess what. 4X8 ply isn't always that size either!
2007-05-24 16:30:34 · answer #4 · answered by PAUL A 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Because it was a 2 x 4 before the shrinkage. If they measured wood after shrinkage, it could be off one way or another.
2007-05-24 16:16:58 · answer #5 · answered by Jess 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
A drywall add half an inch on each side of stud.
2007-05-24 16:20:36 · answer #6 · answered by I need help 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋