A lumber product commonly available at a large home improvement retailer, it is a softwood board measuring approximately 1.5 inches thick and 3.5 inches wide, with a length of 12 feet. These dimensions, while referred to as “2×4,” are the nominal size, and the actual dimensions are smaller due to the milling process. An example use case involves framing walls in residential construction.
This standardized building material plays a crucial role in construction and DIY projects due to its versatility and relatively low cost. Its consistent dimensions allow for predictable structural calculations and ease of handling. Historically, lumber of these dimensions has been a foundational element in North American building practices, influencing both residential and commercial construction methods.