Obtaining Lumber Like an Expert
Getting trees to the lumber yard is a much more extensive process than what many may think. There are a number of steps that wood goes through before being part of anyone’s construction process. Learning about the different methods and decisions that go into acquiring lumber can help you purchase a quality product from a reliable source.
Harvesting Methods
Cutting vegetation from its natural environment is a delicate process. There is an entire science dedicated to cutting trees without endangering resources. Today most companies rely on one of three forms of harvesting. Selection harvesting is where a tree is individually picked from a forest due to its weaker health or to prevent overcrowding. Clear cutting harvesting involves removal of an entire area of forest. The shelterwood method removes smaller areas of trees from a larger forest at a pace that is best for the local environment.
Different Forms
Those with milling experience may purchase their lumber in log or even tree form. Without having to go through the entire sawing and drying process, sellers will typically provide these items for a lower price before they even reach lumber yards. These services are usually only provided for local areas as shipping trees and log is costly. However, this form is best for those trained in sawing and milling.
Visiting a Lumber Yard
Most buyers will find themselves going directly to a retailer’s lumber selection. There they may view and chose what products they would like to purchase. Some sellers even offer shipping services for a fee. Since processed lumber is a much feasible option many will ship to any location nationwide or internationally. It is important to consider a number of factors when making an order like thickness, grade and the lumber source. A seller may have a selections of lower grades for those on a budget.
In order to avoid possible milling and drying mistakes that come with working with wood, contact a professional lumber provider for your next project.