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4" x 4" #2 & Better Fir KDHT S4S Dimensional Lumber
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4" x 4" #2 & Better Fir KDHT S4S Dimensional Lumber
This is a 4x4 in #2 & Better fir, kiln dried and heat treated (KDHT) and surfaced smooth on all four sides (S4S). It measures 3-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in. actual and comes in 6, 8, 10 and 12 ft lengths.
#2 & Better is the general framing grade. It is sound for structural and non-structural work, and it is the grade most framing plans call for. Span, load and local code decide the size you need, so confirm it with your building inspector or engineer. #2 & Better fir is not an appearance grade, so expect knots and natural character.
Features and Common Uses
- No. 2 & Better grade, a framing grade used for structural and non-structural work
- Fir is a strong, stiff framing softwood that holds nails and screws well.
- Kiln dried to 19% moisture content or less, so it arrives drier and more stable than green lumber
- Heat treated (KD-HT) to a core temperature of at least 56 C for a minimum of 30 minutes
- Surfaced smooth on all four sides (S4S) for a consistent 3-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in. actual size
- Not pressure treated, so it is for dry, above-ground use
Commonly used for:
- Wall studs, plates, joists and rafters
- Posts, headers and beams where the plan calls for #2
- General framing and carpentry
- Decks, sheds and outbuildings
- Posts for decks, fences and pergolas (use pressure treated stock for ground contact)
- Interior structural framing, including single and multi-family homes and additions
- Barns, sheds, and commercial and industrial construction
- Bracing and concrete forming
Specifications
| Product | 4x4 No. 2 & Better Fir, KDHT, S4S |
|---|---|
| Species | Fir |
| Grade | No. 2 & Better |
| Nominal size | 4 in. x 4 in. |
| Actual size | 3-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in. |
| Available lengths | 6, 8, 10 and 12 ft |
| Moisture content | Kiln dried, 19% maximum |
| Heat treatment | KD-HT, core temperature of at least 56 C for 30 minutes |
| Surfacing | S4S, surfaced on four sides |
| Pressure treated | No |
Grade, species and heat-treatment marks are stamped on each board and are the governing record for the piece you receive. Span, load and local code decide where the lumber can be used, so confirm with your building inspector or engineer for structural work. #2 & Better fir is not an appearance grade. See also Griff's Dimensional Lumber Grading Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does No. 2 and Better mean?
It is a visual framing grade. No. 2 and Better boards are sound for general structural use and can include higher grades above No. 2, so you get a consistent, reliable board.
Is No. 2 and Better an appearance grade?
No. It is a structural grade, and knots and other natural characteristics are allowed.
What does KDHT mean?
KDHT means kiln dried and heat treated. The board is dried to 19% moisture content or less and heated to a core temperature of at least 56 C for a minimum of 30 minutes. It is a heat process, not a chemical preservative treatment.
What is the actual size of a 4x4?
A 4x4 measures 3-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in. once surfaced. The 4 in. x 4 in. name is the nominal size from before the board was dried and planed.
Can I use it outside?
Only where it stays dry and above ground, or for short-term use. It is not pressure treated, so it will rot in ground contact or constant wet. Choose pressure treated lumber for buried posts and outdoor structures.