2×4 Dimensions • Quick Answer
2×4 Actual Size & Exact Measurements
The real 2×4 dimensions are 1.5 inches × 3.5 inches (38 mm × 89 mm).
“2×4” is the nominal name; after drying and planing, the finished size is smaller. This page covers 2×4 width, exact size of 2×4, and 2×4 size in mm.
Quick 2×4 measurements
| Label | Inches | Millimeters |
|---|---|---|
| 2×4 actual size | 1.5″ × 3.5″ | 38 × 89 |
| 2×4 width (real) | 3.5″ | 89 |
| 2×4 thickness (real) | 1.5″ | 38 |
| 2×4 size in mm | — | 38 × 89 |
Also searched as: 2×4 dimensions, 2×4 true size, exact dimensions of a 2×4, actual width of 2×4, and measurements of 2×4.
Nominal vs actual: real 2×4 dimension
A “2×4” is the nominal size. After milling, drying, and planing, the finished board is the actual dimension of 1½″ × 3½″. This is the standard in North America and is why “2×4 real dim” differs from the name.
Compare 2×4 size to other lumber
| Nominal | Actual (in) | Actual (mm) | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2×4 | 1.5 × 3.5 | 38 × 89 | 2×4 actual size |
| 2×6 | 1.5 × 5.5 | 38 × 140 | 2×6 actual size |
| 2×8 | 1.5 × 7.25 | 38 × 184 | 2×8 actual size |
| 2×10 | 1.5 × 9.25 | 38 × 235 | 2×10 actual size |
| 4×4 | 3.5 × 3.5 | 89 × 89 | 4×4 actual size |
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FAQ: 2×4 dimensions & actual size
What is the exact size of a 2×4?
The exact measurements of a 2×4 are 1.5 inches × 3.5 inches (38 × 89 mm).
What is the 2×4 width?
The real 2×4 width is 3.5 inches (89 mm). The thickness is 1.5 inches (38 mm).
What is the actual dimension of a 2×4 vs nominal?
Nominal 2×4 is the name; the actual dimension of 2×4 after surfacing is 1.5″ × 3.5″.
What is the 2×4 size in mm?
2×4 in metric is 38 mm × 89 mm.