Whether you are a professional builder or a DIY woodworking enthusiast, using a rough sawn lumber for your project can be very beneficial for you in a lot of different ways. While it is undeniable that this kind of lumber is not as attractive as the finished lumbers, it is definitely a great and viable option, especially when you are on a tight budget. As far as price, a rough sawn lumber is by a wide margin cheaper than a finished one. Furthermore, it is thicker, and somewhat stronger, as compared to the finished lumber cuts.When buying rough cut lumber, however, there are a lot of important things that you have to keep in mind. To make the whole buying process a lot simpler and easier, make sure to take note of these tips and suggestions:
Step 1
First, you need to find a trusted wood dealer or sawmill in your location. For the most part, you can find these folks through good references or by word of mouth. Likewise, you may find them through recommendations from social network users and online community boards.
Step 2
Once you have found a reputable wood dealer, visit their location, and take a look at the stock they have. Examine their thickness and feel their surface, to determine if their products are rough sawn lumbers. Basically, rough sawn lumbers are thicker as well rougher in surface than the finished woods.
Bring a calculator and tape measure with you, when buying rough cut lumber from a wood dealer. This simply allows you to measure the lumber boards you have selected, as well as determine how much they would cost.
Step 3
As you examine their stock, ask the dealer whether their rough cut lumber is kiln dried or air dried. That way, you will be able to know if their lumber products are perfectly suited to your needs and budget. If the dealer does not have the rough sawn lumber that you want, ask them if they know someone who does.
If you are on a tight budget, opting for an air dried lumber makes a lot of sense, as it is cheaper than its kiln dried counterparts. This lumber, however, may be vulnerable to insect infestations since it is dried on the outdoors. On the other hand, kiln dried lumbers would annihilate the lumber’s insects and its eggs due to its high temperature.
Step 4
When buying rough cut lumber, take your time talking to your wood dealer. As experts in wood, they can be a great source of information about the lumber’s treatments and applications. You can even get a best deal when you go for a wholesale lumber
