Should you buy your hardwood lumber from a sawmill?

Yes!

But it's not without its pros and cons. Let's dive into it!

The top 5 advantages to buying rough-sawn hardwood lumber directly from a sawmill:

Lower Cost: Buying lumber directly from a sawmill can often be more cost-effective compared to purchasing it from a lumberyard or other middleman. This is because there are fewer intermediaries involved in the supply chain, which can result in lower prices for the consumer.
Customization: Many sawmills offer the ability to customize the lumber to your specific requirements, such as thickness, width, and length. This can be particularly useful for projects that require non-standard dimensions or unusual shapes.
Quality: When you buy lumber directly from a sawmill, you can see and inspect the wood before you purchase it. This can help ensure that you're getting the highest quality lumber for your project.
Sustainability: Many sawmills source their wood from sustainably managed forests and follow environmentally responsible practices, which can be important for those concerned about the ecological impact of their projects.
Local Sourcing: Buying directly from a sawmill can be a great way to support local businesses and communities, as well as reduce transportation costs and associated carbon emissions.

While there are several advantages to buying hardwood lumber directly from a sawmill, there are also some potential disadvantages to be aware of:

Limited Selection: Sawmills may have limited species and sizes available, which could make it difficult to find the exact wood you need for your project.
Processing Required: Rough-sawn lumber from a sawmill will likely require additional processing, such as planing, sanding, or cutting, before it can be used in your project. This can add to the overall cost and time required to prepare the lumber for use.
Transportation: If the sawmill is not located nearby, you may need to arrange for transportation of the lumber, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Inconsistent Availability: Sawmills may have limited production runs of certain species or sizes, and may not always have the lumber you need in stock. This can result in delays or the need to source the wood from multiple suppliers.

Overall, buying hardwood lumber directly from a sawmill can be a great option for those looking to save money and support local businesses, but it may require additional effort and knowledge to ensure that you get the right wood for your project.

Contact us to see if buying hardwood direct from the sawmill is your best option.