The shrinking 2x4

[Bob C]

Just bought some studs from home depot. They measured 3 and 3/8 by 1 and not quite 7/16 of an inch
Any body else notice this? Is the industry getting ready to shrink 2x4s again?

Bob

[Jacksnap]

Most accurate way to measure lumber is using dial or digital calipers. Don't forget, if you used a roll-up tape measure, the little 'thingy' sliding on the end has to be used correctly to get the right measurement. Measure in multiple locations along the length to get an average. Also, check for 'wedging' of the lumber (think of the lumbar being cut in a wedge). If you are in a cold/dry climate it's going to shrink; vice versa if here in FL and high humidity.
And, it could have been milled outside the US or bad QC at the mill. Does not suprise me at all coming from a big box store :( . HD seems to have the worst QC'd soft lumber. Loew's IMHO is better but not as good as a local trade supplier.

[Wgoodrich]

The measurements you quoted have been the norm for several years. Yes they shorted the 2x4 years ago to 3 1/2 x 1 1/2" then again they shrunk them by about 1/16th inch more.

Figure the profit of 1/16" from a log. 16 - 2x4s and you have one extra 2x4 one way only. Double that the other way. Now every log 26" across adds one free 2x4 side to side. Same applies edge to edge 3 1/2 way only a long being 58" across. This adds up to a log 26" x 58" gives the wholesaler 2 extra 2x4s.

Just for giggles

Wg