Dimensional Lumber

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I’m going to add a wall in one of the rooms of my house, what grade of board should I use.

If the wall won’t be carrying any weight above it, you can use a light framing 2x4. The other option is a stud, which can be used for load bearing...

 

Why is this 2x4 so much more expensive than these other 2x4s?

The quality is very different between the two. One is a Stud grade piece of lumber and the other is Utility grade. The Utility grade is much lower...

 

Why is it called a 2x4 if it is really on 1-1/2”x3-1/2”?

The piece of wood started out 2”x4”, but the process of drying and planning made it smaller. How much it shrinks depends on whether the lumber...

 

What kind of finish do you recommend for my redwood fence?

You have several different options. I recommend a product with a water repellent and a mildewcide. There are clear finishes and stains available...

 

I’m building shelves and need some lumber that I can paint and that will look nice. What grade do I need?

I recommend an appearance- or finish-grade lumber in a prime...

 

I’m building a wall. What grade of lumber do I need for studs?

I recommend a No. 2 grade economy...

 

Do I still need to paint or treat my treated wood?

No wood is so naturally resistant to the weather as to make it maintanance-free. You should use protective finishes like water repellents to avoid...

 

What type of nails should I use with redwood?

Use top quality, hot-dipped galvanized, aluminum alloy or stainless steel fasteners. These will not rust, corrode or discolor the wood or lose their...

 
 
 
 


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