What Does S2S Lumber Mean? A Complete Guide

If you’ve ever purchased hardwood timber, you might have come across some abbreviations like S2S, S3S, and S4S marked on the labels of the timber. These terms stand for the amount of processing that the lumber has undergone before it is sold to the client.

However, “S2S” stands for “Surfaced Two Sides.” In the case of S2S lumber, the two wide sides of the wood are planed to get smooth surfaces, but the other sides are left unprocessed.

Knowing the meaning of “S2S” will allow you to make the right selection and predict the size of the lumber you need.

What Is S2S Lumber?

S2S is an abbreviation that means “Surfaced Two Sides”. In the process of milling, the two main faces of the board get planed and thinned out. On the other hand, the other two main edges are not normally smoothed out, meaning they might still have odd shapes and saw marks.

So, we can say S2S lumber lies between rough sawn and finished lumber. This way, you prepare your surfaces but do not pay for the machining of all four sides.

What Does S2S Mean in Woodworking?

Well, S2S lumber is a perfect blend of accuracy and customization for woodworkers.

Since the surfaces of the boards have been flattened, there will be less work done on the surfacing and planing of the boards. But the edges will require some additional treatment. One edge will get jointed, and the other one will be ripped in order to get the precise width.

So, this makes the S2S lumber very useful for those who have woodworking machines but want to customize the boards.

S2S vs. Rough-Sawn Lumber

“Rough-sawn boards normally emerge from the mill with marks of the saw still visible. The S2S boards will be partially milled, especially the two widest faces.”

In the end, S2S can be more time-saving, allowing you the flexibility of controlling the final width.

S2S vs. S4S Lumber

The primary distinction between S2S and S4S boards lies in the quantity of the surfaces that have been processed.

S2S lumber features “Two surfaced sides”, whereas S4S features “Surfaced Four Sides”. Moreover, S4S lumber features all faces and all edges finished. This type of lumber is more uniform and does not need any additional preparation.

So, if you need custom widths, then S2S is the choice. But if you require boards with pre-measured dimensions, S4S should be your choice.

Does S2S Lumber Have Actual Dimensions?

Yes, but do remember the difference between nominal and real sizes of lumber.

After surfacing, some part of the material is lost from the piece. For instance, this means that a rough 4/4 board may be surfaced down to a thickness of about 13/16 inch, depending on the supplier.

That is why it is important not to confuse the quarter size of the board with the actual thickness.

How Do You Calculate S2S Lumber?

Well, if you are purchasing hardwood in volume, then using a Board Foot Calculator is best to estimate how much lumber you will need.

Remember, a board foot is equivalent to 144 cubic inches of lumber.

For calculation of S2S material, you need to use the dimensions provided by the supplier and the amount of material expected to be lost in the milling process.

On the other hand, if your aim is just to calculate the length of the lumber, a linear foot calculator will be most suitable. Board feet take into consideration the width and length of the lumber. These calculators are really useful for woodworking projects. Moreover, the Log Board Foot Calculator is great for figuring out how much lumber you can get from logs.

When Should You Buy S2S Lumber?

S2S lumber is a wise choice when:

• You need a smooth surface but custom width
• You have access to a table saw or jointer
• You wish to limit the amount of early milling
• You require hardwood lumber for furniture and cabinetry
• You prefer more control over dimensions
• You need to gauge the amount of lumber before purchase

Otherwise, S2S lumber may not be the best choice.

Final Thoughts: S2S Lumber

Wrapping up, lumber that is referred to as “S2S” represents a middle ground between pre-surfaced boards and customized timber. The wood has been surfaced on both sides but still has unfinished edges, allowing you to determine your own width for the work piece.

Make sure you know the dimensions of the lumber before purchasing, determine the amount of extra milling needed, and measure your lumber requirements. It will make it easier for you to decide among S2S, S3S, S4S, and rough-sawn lumber.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does S2S lumber mean in woodworking?

It is lumber with two sides surfaced but with unfinished edges. You have the freedom to determine the desired width for your work.

Which is better, S2S or S4S lumber?

Regarding S2S vs. S4S lumber in woodworking, there is no best option among both. While S2S lumber allows you to have the freedom to create the desired width, S4S lumber will save you some preparation time because of its machined four sides.

Is it possible to use the Board Foot Calculator in S2S lumber?

Yes. There is a Board Foot Calculator available for S2S hardwood lumber that you can use for calculating the volume of lumber necessary for your project.