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I read that a standard 2x4 is actually 1.5 inches by 3.5 inches
Found that out in a lumberyard FAQ sheet last weekend (which, honestly, explains a lot of my past measuring mistakes). Has anyone else had a basic building fact trip them up like that?
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sean_dixon965mo ago
So why even call it 3/4 inch then?
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michaeladams6mo ago
Remember learning that in shop class years ago... but honestly, the real mind-bender for me was figuring out plywood sheets. A 4x8 sheet is never actually 4 feet by 8 feet. It's always a little under, like 48 by 96 inches, but then the thickness is a whole other mess. A sheet labeled 3/4 inch is actually 23/32 inch. Makes you wonder why they even bother with the names.
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karen3686mo ago
Wait, 23/32 of an inch for a 3/4 sheet? That's a full 1/32 short, which is a big deal for joinery. I guess the names are just for quick reference, but it sets you up for a bad time if you don't measure the actual stock.
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