What are the actual dimensions of a 2 X 6 framing lumber?

• A. 1 1/2" x 5 1/2"
• B. 2" x 6"
• C. 1" x 5"
• D. 1 3/4" x 5 1/4"

Answer: (A)

Lumber is sold by nominal sizes, but the finished dimensions are smaller after milling. A 2-by-6 rough-cut becomes 1 1/2 inches thick and 5 1/2 inches wide, which is the actual size used in framing. This standard finished size arises because planing and surfacing remove rough edges, shrinking the dimensions from their original nominal numbers so the boards fit together consistently in walls and floors. The other options don’t match the established finished size: they either reflect the old rough-cut dimensions or mix a thickness and width that aren’t the standard for a 2x6.