Abstract: Disclosed is a “2 by” (or “2×”) wood construction member, e.g. a 2×4 or a 2×6, having conventional width and thickness but which has a longitudinal cross sectional area which is less than the longitudinal cross sectional area of a regular corresponding 2 by. The reduction in cross section area is achieved by removing material from a longitudinal major surface, e.g. a side or edge surface. When such a member is used in the wall of stick house, a wiring channel is thereby provided. Also disclosed are methods of making such a member.