Canadian Owned & Operated Since 1964
2" x 4" J-Grade SPF Dimensional Lumber
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2" x 4" J-Grade SPF Dimensional Lumber
J-Grade is a premium, high-visual SPF (Spruce-Pine-Fir) lumber with small tight knots, minimal wane and a bright, clean appearance. It is a No. 2 & Better grade sorted for looks as well as strength, and it is kiln-dried.
This is the 2 x 4, actual size 1-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in., in lengths from 8 to 16 ft.
Features and Common Uses
- Very small, tight, sound knots only
- Four square edges with virtually no wane
- Exceptionally straight and true
- Often dried to a lower, more stable moisture content of 15% or less
- Clean, bright appearance with minimal pitch
- Pack size of 294 pieces
Commonly used for:
- Exposed framing for pergolas, gazebos and vaulted ceilings
- Fine woodworking, as a base material for furniture or workbenches
- Premium decking substructure, where the straightest framing keeps a deck level
Specifications
| Nominal Size | 2 in. x 4 in. |
|---|---|
| Actual Size (T x W) | 1-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in. |
| Species | Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF) |
| Grade | J-Grade |
| Moisture Content | Kiln-dried |
| Lengths | 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 ft. |
| Pack Size | 294 pieces |
Grading reference for dimensional lumber. Source: Dimensional Lumber Grading Guide (PDF).
J-Grade vs Standard Construction Grade
| Feature | Standard Construction Grade | J-Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Knots | Large, loose or encased knots allowed | Very small, tight, sound knots only |
| Wane | Bark or missing edges are common | Four square edges; virtually no wane |
| Straightness | Some bowing or twisting is expected | Exceptionally straight and true |
| Moisture | Often kiln-dried to 19% | Often dried to 15% or less |
| Appearance | Rougher surface, stamps and pitch streaks | Clean, bright appearance with minimal pitch |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is J-Grade lumber?
J-Grade is a premium SPF grade, produced mainly in Western Canada for the Japanese post and beam market. It has small tight knots, minimal wane and a bright appearance, and it is a No. 2 & Better grade sorted for looks as well as strength.
How is J-Grade different from standard construction lumber?
Standard grade allows large knots, wane and some bowing. J-Grade allows only very small tight knots, has four square edges and must be exceptionally straight.
What is the actual size of a J-Grade 2x4?
The actual size is 1-1/2 in. x 3-1/2 in.
Why does J-Grade cost more than No. 2 & Better?
Only a small percentage of a mill's output qualifies for the J-Grade stamp, so supply is limited.