The nominal size is a term used for lumber that is not dressed, or finished. This is a term used when the lumber is at a rough cut, or in other words, a rough draft. The final draft is called its actual size.
Why is Nominal Size Important?
When you are talking about construction and do it yourself projects, you will need to know the different terms and what each means. If someone were to tell you that they have “X” amount of lumber for sale at “X” nominal size, you will know that whatever you will be purchasing from them will come out smaller in actual size.
When you are constructing a structure, you might start out with a 2x4. This is the nominal size. However, when you dress it and plane it, it will be somewhat smaller. The nominal size is just the starting point for a finished lumber. This is a very important concept when building. It can mean the difference from accurate measurements or a whole project going wrong and not having enough materials.
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