Regional standards: Different countries have different standards for timber dimensions.

Sawing technique: Different sawing techniques, like plainsawn, riftsawn, or quartersawn, can influence timber dimensions and grain appearance.

The amount of shrinkage varies based on the wood species and the drying method used.

Shrinkage: As timber dries, it shrinks.

Several elements determine the final size of the timber: The planing process removes any roughness and irregularities from the timber, creating a refined finish that is ready for use in various woodworking and construction projects.

It refers to wood that has undergone a planing process on all four sides, resulting in smooth and uniform surfaces. “PAR” timber stands for “Planed All Round” timber. It is available in various thicknesses and widths, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. This timber is smoothly finished and showcases square edges at 90-degree angles to each other. Planed square edge timber, often referred to as “PSE,” is a popular choice for many woodworking projects due to its smooth, refined finish. However, the planing process reduces the size of the timber slightly. Planed timber (or dressed timber): This wood has been smoothed to a certain degree, resulting in more precise measurements.As a result, it can be somewhat rough to the touch, and its dimensions can be slightly larger than stated. Rough-sawn timber: This type hasn’t been planed after sawing.In our selection, you’ll find common lengths such as 2.4m, 3m, 3.6m, 4.2m, and 4.8m. Typically, these standard lengths increase in 60cm intervals. Timber beams come in a wide range of lengths to accommodate various construction and woodworking needs.

However, globally and occasionally within the UK, imperial sizes persist in use. In the UK, all timber must be sold using metric sizes, with millimetres being the standard unit of measurement. In different regions, timber may be sold using imperial or metric measurements. Actual sizeĪctual size, on the other hand, is the true, physical dimensions of the timber.īefore embarking on your project, ensure you can have access to actual sizes locally (finished sizes) to streamline your timber project as much as possible. Instead, its actual size tends to be around 1.5 inches by 3.5 inches. These sizes are usually not the exact measurements of the timber but are used for consistency in labelling and purchasing.įor example, a 2×4 piece of timber doesn’t measure exactly 2 inches by 4 inches. Nominal size refers to the standardised or “in-name-only” dimensions used in the timber industry. It’s crucial to keep this difference in mind while planning and executing your projects, as it directly impacts the fit and overall aesthetics of the end product. Nominal sizes refer to the dimensions of timber before any planing or finishing, whereas actual sizes denote the dimensions after planing and smoothing the wood (finished timber sizes). The Distinction between Nominal and Actual Sizes Width and Thickness: Typically measured in inches or millimetres.These standard stock sizes simplify the process of acquiring the right amount of material for a project and reduce the need for compiling a complicated cutting list. Understanding Timber SizesĬhoosing the correct timber sizes is crucial to ensure proper fitting and structural integrity in any construction or woodworking project.įrom softwood timber to hardwood timber, all grades and types of timber are subject to varying dimensions, and it’s essential to know the standard lengths and widths commonly used in the industry. In this article, we will delve into the world of timber sizes, including planed timber, imperial and metric measurements, and the difference between nominal and actual sizes. It’s an integral part of the building process, impacting everything from structural stability to aesthetic appeal. Timber sizing is more than just measuring the length and width of a piece of wood. Skirting and Architrave Advice & Guides.Performance Plasterboard Advice & Guides.Mineral Wool Insulation Advice & Guides.

Inch actual size