Canadian Owned & Operated Since 1964
4" x 6" Utility/#3 Grade Green S4S Fir Dimensional Lumber
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4" x 6" Utility/#3 Grade Green S4S Fir Dimensional Lumber
This is a 4x6 in #3/Utility grade fir, sold green and surfaced smooth on all four sides (S4S). It is an economy heavy-section stock in 6, 8, 10 and 12 ft lengths, used for concrete forming, bracing, blocking and general-purpose work.
#3/Utility is an economy grade, not a structural framing grade, and it is sold green. It is graded on usefulness and low cost rather than strength or appearance, and it still holds moisture, so it shrinks and can twist or check as it dries.
Features and Common Uses
- #3/Utility grade fir, an economy grade that keeps the cost of 4x6 stock down
- Green, with a moisture content above 19%, so it is soft to cut and nail
- Surfaced smooth on all four sides (S4S) for square edges and consistent faces
- Four lengths, 6, 8, 10 and 12 ft, so you cut less on the job
- Not pressure treated, so keep it out of ground contact for permanent work
Commonly used for:
- Concrete form walers, strongbacks and shoring
- Job-site bracing, blocking and temporary supports
- Cribbing, dunnage and skids
- Pallet, crate and equipment framing
Specifications
| Product | 4x6 #3/Utility Fir, Green, S4S |
|---|---|
| Species | Fir |
| Grade | #3/Utility |
| Nominal size | 4 in. x 6 in. |
| Actual size, green | About 3-9/16 in. x 5-5/8 in., shrinking toward 3-1/2 in. x 5-1/2 in. as it dries |
| Available lengths | 6, 8, 10 and 12 ft |
| Moisture content | Green, above 19% |
| Surfacing | S4S, surfaced on four sides |
| Pressure treated | No |
Grade, species and moisture marks are stamped on each piece and are the governing record for what you receive. Under western lumber grading, Utility is a Light Framing grade for sizes up to 4x4, while a 4x6 falls in Structural Joists and Planks, where No. 3 is the lowest grade. Green lumber changes size as it dries, so confirm the dimensions you need at the counter before you order. Source: WWPA: Dimensional lumber grades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use #3/Utility grade for beams or posts?
Not for structural or load-bearing beams and posts unless your building inspector or engineer accepts it. #3 is the lowest grade in this size, below #2. Use a #2 and better 4x6 for deck, porch and carport members, and keep #3/Utility for forming, bracing and blocking.
What does green lumber mean?
Green means the piece has not been kiln dried and holds moisture above 19%. It is easy to cut and nail, but it shrinks as it dries and can twist, cup or check.
What is the actual size of a 4x6?
Green 4x6 stock is surfaced a little larger than dry stock, at about 3-9/16 in. x 5-5/8 in., and it settles toward 3-1/2 in. x 5-1/2 in. as it dries. Contact us if a specific dimension matters.
What does S4S mean?
S4S means surfaced on four sides. All four faces are planed smooth, so the piece has square, consistent edges and no rough-sawn surface.
Can I bury it in the ground?
No. 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.