In North America one of the most common lumber sizes is 2×4. So, you would think that when you draw a wall with 2×4, that the dimensions would be 2″ by 4″. Right? Well this is where Nominal vs Actual comes into play. You see, 2×4’s are not actually 2″ by 4″. When...
1. In masonry, a dimension greater (by the thickness of a mortar joint) than the dimensions of the actual masonry unit; in the United States, not exceeding ½ inch (13 mm). 2. In lumber, a dimension that may vary from the actual dimensions as provided for in the local building co...
Pipes are identified by "nominal" or "trade" names that are loosely related to the actual dimensions. For instance, a 2-inch galvanized steel pipe has an inside diameter of about 2 1/8 inches and an outside diameter of about 2 5/8 inches. In plumbing pipe size is referred to as nomi...
The dimensions of sawn lumber before it is dried or surfaced. Also seedressed size. McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Architecture and Construction. Copyright © 2003 by McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Want to thank TFD for its existence?Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, or visitthe...
It is essentially a “reference” size and does not translate to an exact diameter measurement of pipe 12″ and smaller. In process piping the term nominal simply refers to the name of the pipe, much like a 2″ × 4″ piece of lumber. A 2″ × 4″ board does not actually measure ...