Cutting Beams From Logs

However if you are only looking to do the odd log cutting job around the home and the diameter of the log isn t greater than 16 then you might do just as well with an electric chainsaw.

Cutting beams from logs.

If i cannot make a 12x12 from it and cut my other timbers off the sides of that then it is just one timber per log. Once rotated 90 degrees to saw the third side and rotated another 180 degrees to saw the last side the log is squared into a center piece called a cant. That s why you need to promote air circulation on all sides of every board and a household fan really speeds progress. You need to take the most extreme care if you cut lumber from logs.

Our heavy timber beams are cut to standard dimensions. You do not know what is inside the log. A 8x12 beam will net an overall 7 x 11. Timbers sawn parallel to the center are better.

Flat sawn boards are cut from the log where the growth rings run parallel to the wide faces of the board. As a rule i will not cut one unless it is six inches away from the center. Run a metal detector over the log give it a really good scanning for metal embedded in the log. Posts are best if the heart of the log is centered in them.

Most people will go with a gas chainsaw if they intend to cut logs greater than 16 diameter for long hours or work away from the mains power source. 2 6 roof loft decking 5 4 cedar decking and more. With cant sawing the first cuts are made across the top of the log and flipped 180 degrees to saw the second cuts across the opposite face. Flat sawn lumber is the most commonly produced as it is very quick to cut and creates less waste.

Per wwpa guidelines for standard dimension timbers a nominal 4 x6 timber nets to 3 x5 actual dimensions after it has been sawn all beams larger than 8 inch will mill to the inch. Stack your lumber with 1 2 thick strips of scrap lumber between each piece then direct air flow over the pile.