How to Choose 2/6 Lumber

Before deciding which type of 2/6 lumber to buy, it is important to consider a few things. Those factors include the price and strength of the lumber, as well as the span limit and surface-dry condition. Whether you plan to use it indoors or outdoors is another question. The right lumber can make or break your project.

Strength

• There are many factors to consider when determining the strength of 2/6 lumber. 
• The grade and type of wood used, as well as the kind of load applied, will all influence its strength. 
• Another factor to consider is the load duration, which is the time for which the wood can support the weight of the load before it permanently warps, bends or breaks. 
• Taking all of these factors into account is vital for the success of your project.

The orientation of the 2/6 lumber can have a significant impact on the amount of weight it can support. If a piece of 2x6 is flat and facing up, the wood will be only about 1.5 inches thick, while if the piece is laying on its side, it will be about 5.5 inches thick. The orientation of the lumber will also affect how much weight it can support before it begins to deform.

Cost

• The cost of 2/6 lumber will vary depending on where you buy it and the type you choose. 
• For most projects, this type of wood is relatively inexpensive, yet strong enough to handle heavy loads. 
• Most 2x6 lumber is made from pine, fir or spruce. 
• However, different wood species can vary significantly in price and strength, so be sure to read the label to find out which type you need.

Two by six lumber comes in a variety of sizes and is commonly sold by Home Depot. You can visit a showroom and see samples of the type you are looking for. You can also get a discount if you buy five or more pieces of the same length.

Surfaced-dry lumber

• There are a couple of different types of surfaced-dry 2/6 lumber. 
• One is called MC15, which means that it has a moisture content less than fifteen percent. 
• This lumber is good for construction purposes because it is relatively stable and is more suitable for gluing and finishing. 
• Kiln-dried lumber has a moisture content of less than nineteen percent, but is more expensive.

During the drying process, the boards can become distorted. This can be due to knots, pre-existing stresses, or poor stickering. To minimize this, you can clean them up to about 3/16" per side. However, if you need to cut a wide board, it may require more cleanup. Also, when considering the drying process, make sure to allow for about ten percent shrinkage.

Common uses

• There are many different uses for 2/6 lumber, but some of them are less obvious than others. For example, 2x6 lumber is often used to build decks. 
• This lumber can be easily cut into appropriate lengths, sealed to keep moisture, and fitted together to create a decking material. 
• In addition, 2x6 lumber can be pressure treated to resist rot and termites. 
• This process involves injecting chemical additives into the wood fibers, making them more durable and resistant to decay.

Regardless of your use for dimensional lumber, you can find the right one for your project. These boards are usually available in lengths of four feet. This type of lumber is referred to as dimensional lumber because it has a standardized width and depth. This type of lumber is a staple in modern construction, and its standard measurements make it perfect for building houses.

Conclusion

2/6 lumber can be used for many different purposes and is a strong and versatile material. It has a high load capacity and can support a substantial amount of weight, but it's important to know its limitations. This material may not be ideal for structural support or a heavy live load, because it can sag or become damaged if too much weight is placed on it.