What’s the Difference between Nominal and Actual Dimensions?

One of the greatest sources of confusion in the lumber industry is the difference between a board’s nominal dimensions and its actual dimensions. Nominal Dimensions: The Standard Naming Convention Nominal dimensions are the measurements you’re probably used to seeing. They are the names by which lumber is commonly known and sold, found in stores and …

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What Are Board and Lineal Feet?

Woodworking and construction projects require a precise understanding of the fundamental units of measurement in the lumber world: board feet and lineal feet. These units play pivotal roles in estimating and acquiring the right amount of lumber for diverse projects. Board Feet: A Measure of Volume A board foot is a unit of measurement for …

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What Does Ipe Stand For?

Ipe Tree

Ipe is not an abbreviation. Rather, it’s the common name of Tabebuia serratifolia, a tropical hardwood lumber specie. The correct pronunciation is “EE-pay”. Other common names for ipe include Brazilian walnut and ironwood. The ipe tree is native to South America. However, it also grows throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, southern Florida, and other tropical regions. …

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Can Composite Decking be Recycled?

For years the decking industry has gone back and forth as to what is a “green” decking option and what isn’t. In an industry where everyone boasts their product is the best, how are we supposed to make an educated decision when buying a new deck?

Some composite decking does use recycled materials, but does that mean the boards themselves can be recycled? The majority of the time the answer will be no. Our findings suggest that the composite deck boards that can’t be recycled are made from wood and plastic fibers which are combined using bonding agents that deter any machine from separating them.

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Hardwood 101 – White Oak Lumber

White Oak trees (botanically called Quercus Alba) grow throughout much of eastern North America and can reach heights of 70 to 80 feet, with diameters of 2 to 3 feet. White oaks vary in color from light tan to pale yellow-brown with a pinkish tinge. Its sapwood is white to very light brown, while its …

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