The designation “4/4” in lumber terminology signifies the nominal thickness of a board. Particularly, it refers to lumber that’s nominally one inch thick when it’s initially sawn. Nonetheless, after the milling course of, which incorporates surfacing and drying, the precise thickness is often lower than one inch. A standard instance is “4/4” lumber really measuring round 3/4 of an inch thick after processing.
This sizing conference is essential as a result of it gives a standardized approach for lumber suppliers and customers to speak about dimensions, facilitating constant ordering and mission planning. Traditionally, the follow arose from the necessity to account for materials loss in the course of the milling course of. Using a nominal measurement permits for environment friendly utilization of uncooked supplies, balancing tough sawn dimensions with completed product necessities.