What do I have to do to use logs from my woods as supports instead of cut lumber?

Question

We are about to build a home and I am wanting a rustic look. We have a lot of timber (various type - oak, hedge, Sycamore, cedar) on our ranch and want to use the tree trunks as upright supports for the stairs, porch, in the great room, etc. What do we have to do to be able to use them? House won't even be started for at least 6 months.

Answer 1

Your going to want to cut it down and shave the bark off. Its going to need to cure out of the weather so if you have an old barn or somewhere to stack it in a dry environment, do that. Make sure to lay 4x4's between each row to keep them separated.

Answer 2

I would say get with your contractor and explain to him your plans as to where you would like these timbers placed throughout your new home. I live in the country and have timber myself, so I understand your desire to make your land a part of your life. As far as cutting down and selecting your trees you could either diy or have your contactor help you with your choices, because some wood ages better than others when untreated or natural. I grew up in Texas and I remember that cedar was a very popular choice for out door supports such as porch vertical supports. It also was used to line closets in it's rough cut or "saw mill" form, because of it's great smell and it keeps the bugs out for life,roaches and moths hate the stuff.Good Luck!

Answer 3

The best thing to do is get it on the ground as soon as you can so that it will have a chance to cure. If you are serious about this you could invest in a small mill and produce a lot the dimension lumber yourself or find a mill that would do it for you for a share.

Sounds like a dream project, I envy you. Good luck!!!!!!

Answer 4

Don't know exactly what you would do to the wood. Just cut it to size and from there I'm not sure. Use hard maple if you have it. That is the hardest wood there is. I do know that as I sand cabinet doors for a living. That stuff is HARD!