
However, after drying and surfacing, the boards became smaller, approaching the now standard 2×4 dimensions of 1 ½ x 3 ½ inches.
#ACTUAL 1 INCH FULL#
Originally, a 2×4 was cut as a rough green piece that was close to a full 2 inches thick and 4 inches wide. The actual measurements are the final sizes after drying and surfacing. The derivation of nominal measurements was from a board’s size before its drying and surfacing on all 4 sides. Why are the nominal dimensions of lumber larger than the actual dimensions? This is a well-established industry practice. The reason for the differences is because lumber sizes are traditionally given in their nominal size. The first dimensions are its nominal ones, the second measurements are its actual or minimum dressed sizes. Why isn’t the 2×4 at the lumber yard 2 inches thick and 4 inches wide? The 4×4’s are 3 ½ x 3 ½ and the 1×6’s are ¾ of an inch thick and 5 ½ wide. To the novice do it yourselfer softwood lumber sizes can be hard to understand. LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated OSB Sheathing.Moistureshield Composite & Capped Decking.How are you observing National Tape Measure Day? Let us know in the comments – protractor users need not comment. Instead of using a sheet of paper, why not go a step further and simply print out a ruler? Here are some 12-inch ruler templates you can use in those moments when you absolutely need to be as accurate as possible. Use either the long or short edge depending on the size of the surface you’re measuring. Method #3: Printer PaperĪ standard sheet of letter paper is exactly 8.5 inches by 11 inches.

At 3.37 inches long and 2.125 inches tall, your plastic can provide fairly accurate measurements on short notice. If you don’t have cash on hand, you could settle for a credit card.
#ACTUAL 1 INCH HOW TO#
You can also fold it into sixths to create a makeshift ruler – here’s a quick visual guide that shows how to do it.

A plain old dollar bill is exactly 6.14 inches long and 2.61 inches tall, but you can simply round those down to the nearest half-inch. Your reach is almost exactly the same length as your height.Īn easy way to measure without a tape measure is to use your cash. Instead, measure your arm span from fingertip to fingertip.
#ACTUAL 1 INCH PRO#
Pro (Thumb) Tip: How to Measure an Inch Without a Ruler It’s a lot easier to use your pinkie for smaller dimensions since it’s located on the outside of your hand. For shorter distances, measure the length of your pinkie finger. One method is to measure from the line on your wrist to the tip of your middle finger – good for measuring long surfaces.
