A steady timber inventory powers new construction, promoting thriving communities and providing homes to families across the nation. While it’s common knowledge that timber is a product of trees, there’s more involved in its production than most people realize. Here’s a basic overview of how timber is created. 

How to Make Timber 

1. Felling

The act of downing mature trees is known as felling. Forestry experts determine the proper age for cutting down trees, depending on the species and soil quality. After trees are removed, professionals can replace them with saplings to replenish the forest. 

2. Storage & Transportation

Logs may sit in the forest until the sawmill is ready to process them. This step also allows some moisture to evaporate, making the load lighter to haul and reducing transportation costs. A timber truck carries the logs, which are cut down to smaller sizes, to the designated sawmill or construction producer.

3. Cutting

Once they reach the processing site, logs are cut down further. After their bark is removed, they’re cut down to the desired length and shaped into boards with circular saws or other specialty equipment. Following this initial rough sawing, the timber is sent through machines for more precise trimming. 

4. Seasoning

Before they can officially enter timber inventory for purchase or use, logs must have as much moisture removed as possible to avoid becoming warped or deformed. Traditionally, timber is seasoned by allowing natural air exposure to remove moisture over time. Some types of wood, such as pine and certain commercial hardwoods, can also be stacked inside a kiln, a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment which accelerates the drying process.  

5. Preparation for Final Use 

Finally, professionals can perform secondary processing. They shape wood into products like doors before it goes to market. The material can also enter into a construction supplier’s timber inventory for sale. Some treatments may be applied beforehand, such as chemical processing to resist fire or rot.

If you need to optimize your timber inventory, turn to Neeley Forestry Services in Camden, AR. Their team of registered foresters and forest technicians offers reliable appraisal services. With over 140 years of combined experience, they also help clients manage forestry in the surrounding area. See their full list of services online, or call (870) 836-5981 to discuss your needs.