Is it cheaper to have your own lumber milled?

Generally, it costs 5-10% more to have your lumber milled on-site. It is also cheaper to by 2 x 4’s from a big box store than it is to have them milled. So if you are more concerned with quantity over quality, saw milling may not be for you.

How much does milled wood cost?

Retail prices on most of the familiar domestic species (red oak, maple, poplar) vary widely depending on grade, cut and dimensions, but they average somewhere in the range of $3 a board foot. A log measuring 30” in diameter by a little more than 8′ in length can yield about 400 board feet after milling.

What are the two types of milled lumber?

There are four main types of milling to choose from: live, plain, rift, and quarter.

What does milled wood mean?

Milling: Rough-cut and surfaced lumber are manufactured to full standard thickness. All milled lumber is sold on a rough board foot basis. Example : 4/4 surfaced lumber milled to ¾” is measured based on a full inch thickness. Rgh: Rough cut lumber will require surfacing to achieve a smooth finish.

How long can oak logs sit before milling?

As a rule of thumb, there will be a measurable loss in four to six weeks of warm (over 50 F) weather. It is just a rule of thumb.

Is milling wood worth it?

Milling your own lumber can produce quality material for a fraction of the price of a lumber dealer. In fact, if you purchase your own mill, like I have, you can actually make a profit off of it by selling lumber to other woodworkers and by offering to mill other people’s logs.

How much is a board foot of Oak worth?

For Mixed or Red Oak, our price per BF is $1.50/BF for 4″, 6″, & 8″ and $2.00 for 10″ and 12″ (the wider stock is more expensive per BF). For White Oak, our price per BF is $3.00/BF & Up depending on size & quality.

What is the difference between oak and quarter sawn oak?

Due to the angle at which its cut, flat sawn oak will almost certainly begin to warp over time as the growth rings are set at such a low angle to the face of the board. Quarter sawn oak, on the other hand, is much more structurally sound and resists cupping, twisting, warping, moisture penetration, and raised grain.

What is the strongest cut of wood?

RIFT SAWN ADVANTAGES Produces the strongest possible boards with the most consistent visual look of long and straight grain patterns. Generally the choice of cut for fine furniture makers looking for consistent patterns throughout their design.

What is the highest grade of lumber?

First and Second
Hardwood grades are: FAS (First and Second) is the highest grade of hardwood lumber. It’s usually 6-inches x 8-inches and is 83 percent defect-free on its best side. Select is 4-inches x 6-inches and 83 percent defect free on its best side.

What is the highest grade for hardwood lumber?

FAS: Shorthand for “First and Seconds”. FAS is the highest of the hardwood lumber grades. FAS 1-Face (abbreviation: F1F): A “Select” piece of lumber which is six inches and wider.