Timber Textures: S4S & Rough Sawn
One decision you'll need to make is the surface texture of your timbers.
The two most common choices are Surfaced 4 Sides (S4S) and sanded, or Rough Sawn (RS).
An S4S timber will usually (but not always) measure 1/2" less than its stated (nominal) size. For example, a surfaced 10 x 10 timber will actually be 9-1/2" x 9-1/2"–whereas a rough sawn 10 x 10 will measure approximately the full 10" x 10".
Because rough sawn timber is often perceived to be more rustic, and because it absorbs and holds more stain than surfaced timber, we sometimes suggest to our clients than they consider rough sawn texture outside, and S4S timber on the inside of their home.
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