Why is a 2x4 called a 2x4 when it is actually 1.5 x 3.5?

(1) On August 2, 2006 at 10:30 pm 204.62.141.201 said:

I don't agree. Not all lumber is kiln dried. You can still buy green lumber and it is surfaced to a smaller size. I am curious as to the historical aspect since there was a time when lumber was full-sized surfaced (versus rough sawn).

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