Understanding Lumber Terminology: Common Terms You Should Know

Understanding Lumber Terminology: Common Terms You Should Know

When beginning a new project that requires wood and lumber, you’ll probably realize quickly that some terms used by experts aren’t common knowledge. However, knowing the correct terms will help you source the right materials, which might save you a headache in the long run.

If you’re new to DIY, follow our guide to learning basic lumber terminology to speak like a pro and easily complete your next home project.

Once you’ve mastered the vocabulary, it will be time to visit the knowledgeable associates at Shop-O-Rama to grab all the necessary tools and materials for your project.

Treatments

It’s probably common knowledge that not all wood can be used for the same purpose or even in the same location. For example, your wood needs will differ for building a deck, making a chair, creating shelving, and even doors for cabinets and closets.

Air-Drying

Any wood and lumber purchased in a lumber yard or hardware store will be treated in some way to remove the moisture. Air-drying means the wood has been left outside to remove moisture naturally over time.

Kiln-Drying

Many pieces of wood have gone through a two-step process. The first step is to air-dry the wood and allow the rest of the moisture to evaporate in the kiln.

Drying in different steps ensures the wood will not warp or become misshapen during this process.

Pressure Treated (PT)

Pressure-treated wood is lumber treated to last longer and stand up better to outdoor weather conditions, bugs, and possibly even fire than wood that has not been pressure-treated.

There are also different grades of pressure-treated lumber. The grade will be higher for the more wear and tear the wood is expected to undergo.

Measurements

Although there are plenty of different terms for measurements, the most common numbers that you will come across are “1-by,” “2-by,” or “4-by.”

This measurement refers to the width of the lumber, so in the case of “1-by,” the piece of lumber is one inch thick. A more common example that you might see is “2-by-4”; in this case, the lumber is two inches wide and four inches deep.

Generally, lumber will vary in length, but eight to ten feet is the most common size.

Species

While this knowledge might be commonplace for any experienced carpenter, knowing the different species of wood and applications can improve your home projects.

For example, Douglas fir is a soft but high-quality wood and can be used for floors, cabinets, doors, and furniture. Harder woods like pine, cedar, or redwood are used for outdoor projects like fences and decks.

At a lumber yard or hardware store, you will also see a shorthand used for each species, such as DF for Douglas fir and HEM for Hemlock fir.

Grading

If you’re starting to move into bigger projects at home, it’s time to start learning about the grading terminology for wood, as some pieces are crucial for framing and structural applications.

#1&BTR

While some pieces of wood use a standard number grade, with 1 being the best, you might also see the term BTR, which stands for “better.” Lumber labeled #1&BTR means the wood is grade 1 and better.

This list runs from 1-3. 1 being the highest grade used for framing and construction, while 3 has more defects and knots and might not stand the test of time.

Select Structural and Construction Grade Lumber

Some other terms you will see are “select structural” and “construction grade.” Both of these grades of lumber are high quality and have a low level of knots. If the pieces of wood have knots, they will be tight and far apart. This type of wood is acceptable for large projects such as framing or support.

Stud Grade Lumber

Another common term is “stud grade,” which simply means that the wood is strong enough to use a vertical stud inside of a wall but doesn’t have the aesthetic quality to be considered the top grade.

Utility Grade Lumber

This grade is going to be the lowest grade of lumber. While it can certainly be used for small home projects, it may have some large defects and large knots that sit close together.

You can now be confident enough to start a new building project at home. If you still have questions about lumber or need assistance with a project, the team at Shop-O-Rama is on your side. Simply check out our store to ask a question, or stock up on high-quality lumber!