I just read that a standard 2x4 is actually 1.5 inches by 3.5 inches. Found it in a lumber yard pamphlet in Tacoma.

3 comments

3 Comments

Yeah, that "standard 2x4" thing got me the first time I tried to build something. I was so confused when my measurements were off. It's one of those weird industry secrets that makes you feel like a total rookie.

parker_park81mo agoTop Commenter

Took me three failed birdhouses to figure it out. Felt like a whole conspiracy against weekend DIYers.

hart.mark20d ago

Ha, I used to think lumber sizes were just common sense. But then I tried building a simple shelf and realized nothing was matching up. It made me way more sympathetic to people complaining about this stuff.