lumber 1x6x8 for sale

1x6x8 Lumber for Sale: A Comprehensive Guide

lumber 1x6x8 for sale, When it comes to woodworking, construction, or DIY projects, selecting the right lumber is crucial. One of the most commonly used sizes is 1x6x8 lumber, which refers to a board that is nominally 1 inch thick, 6 inches wide, and 8 feet long. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about 1x6x8 lumber for sale, including its uses, types, pricing, and where to buy it.

What Is 1x6x8 Lumber?

1x6x8 lumber is a versatile dimensional lumber size used in various construction and woodworking applications. Despite its name, the actual dimensions are slightly smaller due to milling and drying processes.

  • Nominal Size: 1x6x8 (1″ thick x 6″ wide x 8′ long)
  • Actual Size: Typically 0.75″ x 5.5″ x 8′ (after planing and drying)

Common Types of 1x6x8 Lumber

  1. Pine (Whitewood/SPF – Spruce-Pine-Fir) – Affordable, lightweight, and easy to work with.
  2. Cedar – Naturally resistant to rot and insects, ideal for outdoor projects.
  3. Redwood – Durable and aesthetically pleasing, often used for decks and fences.
  4. Pressure-Treated – Treated with chemicals to resist moisture and pests, suitable for outdoor use.
  5. Oak & Hardwoods – More expensive but highly durable for fine woodworking.

Common Uses for 1x6x8 Lumber

Due to its manageable size and strength, 1x6x8 lumber is used in:

  • Fencing & Decking (cedar or pressure-treated)
  • Shelving & Storage (pine or plywood alternatives)
  • Wall Paneling & Siding
  • Furniture Making (benches, tables, cabinets)
  • DIY Projects (picture frames, garden beds, trim work)

Where to Buy 1x6x8 Lumber

You can find 1x6x8 lumber for sale at:

  • Home Improvement Stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards
  • Local Lumber Yards (often better quality and pricing)
  • Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, specialty woodworking stores
  • Auction Sites & Marketplaces: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist (for discounted or reclaimed lumber)

Price Range for 1x6x8 Lumber

Prices vary based on wood type and quality:

  • Pine/SPF: 5–12 per board
  • Cedar: 10–25 per board
  • Pressure-Treated: 8–20 per board
  • Hardwoods (Oak, Maple): 15–40+ per board

(Prices may fluctuate based on location and demand.)

FAQs About 1x6x8 Lumber

1. Why is a 1×6 board not actually 1″ thick and 6″ wide?

Lumber is milled to its nominal size (name) but shrinks during drying and planing. The actual size is typically 0.75″ x 5.5″.

2. Can I use 1x6x8 pine for outdoor projects?

Untreated pine is not ideal for outdoor use unless sealed or painted. For durability, choose cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber.

3. How many 1x6x8 boards do I need for a fence?

Calculate based on fence length and spacing. For an 8-foot section with no gaps, you’d need about 16 boards (8’ length ÷ 5.5” width ≈ 16 boards).

4. What’s the difference between #1 and #2 grade lumber?

  • #1 Grade: Fewer knots, smoother finish (better for visible projects).
  • #2 Grade: More knots and imperfections (suitable for structural use).

5. Can I cut 1x6x8 lumber to smaller sizes?

Yes! Most stores offer cutting services, or you can use a saw at home.

6. Is pressure-treated lumber safe for indoor use?

Modern pressure-treated wood is safer, but avoid using it for indoor furniture or food-related projects due to chemical treatments.

7. How do I prevent warping in 1x6x8 lumber?

  • Store lumber flat and supported.
  • Seal or paint to reduce moisture absorption.
  • Use kiln-dried wood for stability.