What is the metric equivalent of a 2x12 piece of lumber?

A 2x12 piece of lumber in imperial measurements refers to a nominal size, which reflects the rough-cut dimensions before drying and planing. In nominal dimensions, that means the piece is approximately 2 inches thick and 12 inches wide. However, the actual dimensions after finishing typically differ from the nominal measurements.

Standard dimensional lumber is usually finished to an actual size of 1.5 inches thick by 11.25 inches wide. In metric measurements, this converts to approximately 38 mm in thickness (1.5 inches) and 286 mm in width (11.25 inches).

Therefore, the correct metric equivalent for a 2x12 piece of lumber is 38x286 mm, accurately reflecting the finished size of this lumber. Understanding how nominal and actual dimensions convert to metric is crucial for ensuring proper material selection and usage in carpentry projects.