I need 4 posts that hold up some beams in my outdoor patio. Since a 4x4 PT post actual measurement is 3.5 by 3.5, can i cut one side of the 4x4 so it has a reduced width and becomes 2.5 by 3.5 which is what i need?
does cutting a 4x4 PT post to 2.5 by 3.5 reduce its strength? Any other adverse impacts I need to be aware of? Do I need to do anything to the cut surface?
Many thanks!