Dimension Lumber

Curtis Lumber stocks many grades and types of dimensional lumber to meet your needs. With daily delivery service throughout the region, we can get the lumber you need quickly and on time.

Dimension Lumber Stocked at Each Curtis Lumber Store

This list is representative of the dimensional lumber that is stocked at each Curtis Lumber store location. However, all types of lumber can be delivered throughout our service area, the next day. Contact the closest store if you don’t see something you are looking for.

Dimensional lumber is a fundamental component in construction, graded and stamped to indicate its quality, species, and moisture content. The American Lumber Standard Board of Review establishes these standards and accredits grading agencies.

Each piece of lumber bears a grade stamp that provides essential information:

• Certification Mark: Identifies the supervising grading agency.
• Mill Identification: Denotes the manufacturer through a name, brand, or mill number.
• Grade Designation: Specifies the quality grade of the lumber.
• Species Identification: Indicates the wood species or species group.
• Condition of Seasoning: Shows the moisture content at the time of surfacing:
  • MC-15: 15% maximum moisture content
  • S-DRY: 19% maximum moisture content
  • S-GRN: Over 19% moisture content (unseasoned)

Understanding these stamps is crucial for selecting the appropriate lumber for specific applications.

Grades and Uses of Dimensional Lumber

Dimensional lumber is categorized into various grades, each suited for particular uses:

• Select Structural, No. 1, No. 2, No. 2 & Better (No. 2 & Btr.): Typically 2 to 4 inches thick and 2 inches or wider, these grades are used in most construction projects. They offer high strength, stiffness, and good appearance, making them ideal for trusses, rafters, and joists.
• No. 3: Also 2 to 4 inches thick and 2 inches or wider, this grade is used when high strength and appearance are not critical.
• Construction (Standard & Better, Std. & Btr.): Ranging from 2 to 4 inches thick and 2 to 4 inches wide, this common mix is used in general framing. It has less strength and shorter spans than No. 2 & Better structural light framing.
• Utility: Measuring 2 to 4 inches wide, utility-grade lumber is used where high strength is not essential, such as studs and plates in partition walls, blocking, and braces.
• Economy Stud: With design values not assigned, this grade is suitable for temporary or low-cost construction where strength and appearance are not priorities.
• Stud: Typically 2 to 6 inches wide, this is the most common grade used for studs.

Refer to the Wood Species Used in Construction document for more detailed information

Additionally, the Board Footage Chart is a helpful tool for calculating lumber quantities.

Always consult your local building codes for updated information to ensure compliance with regional standards.