A Beginner’s Guide To Common Lumber Terms

Whether you’re a homeowner embarking on a DIY project or a new contractor who’s just starting out, walking into a lumber yard for the first time can feel like a culture shock. As people behind the counter throw jargon at you, you may find yourself scratching your head in confusion! 

 

However, don’t you worry. In today’s blog, we will demystify common lumber terms for you so you can gain a deeper understanding of them. The main benefit? You can now shop like a lumber pro, avoid costly mistakes, and communicate your lumber requirements confidently. 

 

Let’s get started! 

 

1. Board Feet

 

This is a measurement unit for lumber. So if you hear “board feet” at a yard, know that it will be responsible for calculating the volume of lumber you get or need. Just like a standard foot, it is 12 inches. The only difference is - it’s a square, which means it's 12” x 12” in width with an inch of thickness added to it. 

 

Knowing about board feet is crucial because it can help you correctly estimate both the amount of lumber you need and what the cost of it would be. If you get stuck, though, or can’t figure out how to use board feet to express the quantity of lumber you require, just simply fill in your numbers to this:

 

(Thickness × Width × Length) ÷ 12 = Board Feet

 

Remember to use inches for the first two and feet for length. 

 

2. Nominal & Actual Dimensions

 

These two figures can be confusing for anyone who’s brand new to lumber terms. Let us explain. 

 

So what happens is that when lumber is sold, nominal dimensions are used. These dimensions are typically larger than the actual size to account for drying and planning. So if your actual lumber size is 1.5" x 3.5", you will be sold a 2x4. 

 

With us so far? Now why knowing the difference between nominal and actual dimensions matters because while framing buildings with tight tolerances, that missing half inch can sting. So use actual measurements to place your order. If you need additional clarification before cutting wood, our Fonthill Lumber Inc. experts can always help you. 

 

3. Kiln-Dried Lumber

 

Wood naturally has moisture content, which can pose a problem when you’re building. That said, kiln-dried lumber is sans moisture. It’s dried in a controlled environment so that it doesn’t warp, crack, or shrink easily. 

 

If you’re working on an interior framing or furniture building project, get yourself this type of wood. It will stay stable for long. You should check your lumber for a KD or S-Dry stamp to be sure you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for. More so because this type of wood can cost more, but it does reduce instances of callbacks and readjustments. 

 

4. SPF & Other Species Codes

 

Walk into your local lumber yard and you will see abbreviated labels such as SPF, DF and RC among others on wood products. What do they mean? Here’s a breakdown:

 

• SPF - Spruce Pine Fir
• SYP - Southern Yellow Pine
• RC - Red Cedar 
• DF - Douglas Fir 

 

Each of these species of wood will have its own strengths, weights, and capacity to resist decay so you must know which wood you’re buying before you bring it with you. For example, if your project requires building an outdoor structure, cedar is great because it resists rot. Let your project govern the wood type you need. 

 

5. S4S and Rough Cut

 

Surfaced Four Sides - that is the full form of S4S. This means the wood you’re buying has been smoothed and is ready for use as is. On the other hand, rough cuts are the exact opposite of S4S. This means you’re getting wood that has a rustic texture and is likely to require planing before use. 

 

If you’re a DIYer, S4S is great. However, if you’re a professional with a rustic or custom milling project on hand, rough-cut lumber will do you good.

 

Conclusion

 

Knowing lumber lingo extends beyond sounding smart at your local yard. It actually helps you get the right wood products for your project, which results in savings on all fronts - time, money and effort. That said, if you don't know where to find quality lumber, stop by at one of the most well-loved full-service suppliers in the Niagara region and beyond - Fonthill Lumber Inc. We will answer all your lumber questions and make sure you leave with the right wood products. Contact us today to get confusion-free assistance and premium lumber.