I'm really passionate about woodworking but being just 15 and on a tight budget makes it tough to source wood. I already have a decent set of tools, including an Alaskan mill, but it's pretty slow and tedious to use. I also technically own a house that's likely going to take me ages to pay off, and there are plenty of trees around my property that could provide wood. I'm pondering if it would make sense to invest in a sawmill for personal projects, even though I might not sell the wood. What do you all think?
3 Answers
Owning a band mill has been fantastic for me! They’re really versatile and can open up a lot of possibilities. But milling wood isn't just about cutting it down; you’ve also got to consider drying and grading it, which can be quite the task. If you're thinking about selling, it's a real commitment. I’d recommend starting by building a solar kiln to help with drying your lumber. Just remember the rule of thumb: for air drying, it usually takes about a year per inch of wood thickness, though that can change based on the type of wood you’re using.
You might want to think about keeping those mature trees on your property. They add a lot of value to your home as is, and unless you have tons of them, cutting them down for lumber might not be the best move. If you’re looking at milling for profit, it can be quite challenging to make money after considering all the costs involved with logging and processing your own wood. Sometimes, it’s more about enjoying the process than it is about the financial benefits.
True, mature trees are an asset! But what if I find some downed trees? Is that a better route?
If buying a sawmill seems too steep right now, you can hire a portable mill to come out and mill logs for you. It reduces upfront costs while letting you get the wood you need for your projects. That way, you can save up for a mill later when your finances are more stable! Plus, you're still getting the lumber without the stress of maintenance right now.
That's a smart idea! I hadn’t thought of that option. It'd definitely save me some headaches until I'm ready to invest.
That’s a great point! I never thought about the drying process. I’ve got some logs in my backyard, and I’m not sure how to proceed. Could you clarify more about the solar kiln?