Introduction to Portable Sawmill
A portable sawmill is essential for lumber projects and side businesses.
- Milling wet logs is easier, but lumber must dry before use.
- Dead trees can be milled if dried properly.
- A sawmill cuts logs into lumber using bandsaw blades.
- Manual hobby mills produce 100 board feet per hour, while hydraulic models can produce over 600 board feet per hour.
- Sawmilling costs less than buying lumber.
- You control drying and choose cut styles.
- The first cut above the stump is the butt log.
Pricing and Costs
- The rate for sawmilling ranges from $65 to $105 per hour based on wood type and quality at 130 board feet per hour.
- Flat hourly rates are common, plus travel and blade fees.
- Sawmills pay $65 to $105 per thousand board feet.
- Trucking single logs rarely covers transportation costs.
- Less valuable wood reduces prices. Ash logs have gained value as supplies shrink.
How Much Does it Cost to Mill Timber?
Rates vary from $65 to $105 per hour plus extra charges. Manual hobby mills produce 100 board feet per hour, while hydraulic models can produce over 600 board feet per hour.
Considerations for Timber Milling
- Past logging affects the value of timber.
- Hidden natural resources like harvestable timber can add property value.
- Stay updated on trends affecting wood prices.
- Location can impact costs, so inspect thoroughly.
- The lumber calculator converts dimensions, and actual size is less than stated size.
- Millwork costs more for larger factory projects versus smaller home renovations. Cost varies based on project size and complexity.