The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Right Lumber for Your Project

Understanding the Differences between Nominal and Actual Sizes

Nominal size refers to the size of the board when it was first rough sawn, while actual size refers to the board's true dimensions after it has been processed and planed which usually take between 1/8" to 1/4" off each side that has been processed. Understanding this difference can save you a lot of frustration and ensure that your project comes out looking the way you want it to.

For Example, if your ordering a Dressed 1 x 4 that is its Nominal Size its Actual Dimension will be 3/4" x 3-1/2". 

Here is a Quick Chart of Nominal Sizes vs Actual Sizes

 

     

 What should the board look like?

Always double check to make sure the boards your getting are not cupped or bowed. You can even do the nose trick with the board up to your nose and looking down the length of the board on all four sides.

Cupping

Cupping; which is warp across the width of the lumber.

Bowing

Bowing; which is a warp across the length of the lumber.

Crook

Crook; a warp along the length of the edge of the wood.

Kinking

kink; a localized crook, often due to the presents of a knot.

Twisting or Wind

Twist or Wind; a distortion in which the two ends do not lie on the same plane.

All wood will warp when drying, however these issues tend to happen more frequently in boards cut from the center of the tree.

What defects do I worry about?

You will run into many different types of wood defects in lumber, so we will only touch base on a few common ones.

 

Knots

These are the most common, and naturally occurring defects. A knot is usually only a visual defect and doesn't compromise the wood structure.

 

Checks

Checks are cracks that occur along the growth rings of the wood. Small checks shouldn't be a significant issue, but large, deep ones can weaken a board structural integrity.

Splits

Splits are similar to checks but occur across the board's width. Like checks, small splits should not be a major concern, but large ones can make the board unsuitable for some applications.

 

 Wane

Wane refers to the presence of bark or the rounded edge of the tree on the board. While a small amount of wane may not be an issue, excessive wane can reduce the usable area of the board.

 

How do I translate this stamp?

When buying lumber, you may come across a stamp or grade mark on the boards. This stamp provides valuable information about the lumber's quality and characteristics. Each country might have different grading systems, but here's a general idea of what you might encounter on the stamp:

Species: The type of wood species is usually mentioned on the stamp. It's essential to know what type of wood you're working with, as different species have varying hardness, grain patterns, and other characteristics.

Grade: The grade indicates the quality of the lumber. Common grades include Select, #1 Common, #2 Common, and #3 Common. Higher-grade lumber will have fewer defects and a more uniform appearance, making it suitable for projects where aesthetics are important.

Moisture Content: The stamp may also provide information about the moisture content of the wood. Keep in mind that wood with a high moisture content may shrink or warp after purchase if not properly dried.

Certification: Some stamps might indicate that the wood is certified by a specific organization, like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This certification ensures that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests.

Understanding these stamps can help you make informed decisions when choosing lumber for your woodworking projects. If you're unsure about any of the information on the stamp, don't hesitate to ask one of our experience associates for clarification.