What is the typical waste percentage of lumber used for framing?

The typical waste percentage of lumber used for framing is generally around 10%. This figure accounts for various factors encountered during the construction process, such as miscuts, defects in the wood, and the need for additional materials due to adjustments made on-site. Understanding this percentage is important for budgeting and planning in any construction project, as it directly impacts the amount of materials that need to be purchased and can help avoid delays caused by insufficient materials.

The choice of 10% reflects common industry standards, which take into consideration the realities of on-site construction practices, including errors and the natural variability in lumber quality. This knowledge is vital for contractors and builders to ensure they have enough lumber to complete the framing without excessive waste that could inflate project costs.