Lumber is generally defined as a commodity, that is, something that is sold in a raw form before any value has been added to it.

As contrasted by goods, which is something that has been finished and sold to consumers as a completed product.

Commodity examples: wheat, lumber

Goods examples: bread, wooden rocking chair

When a lumber company like our establishes our retail price for our lumber pieces, the factors affecting that price are:

• Our desired mark-up
• Our purchase price from the harvester
• Future expectation of price fluctuation
• Scarcity of the material
• Complexity of storage of the material (size, dimension, weight, climate demands)
• Complexity of delivery

Of the above factors, we only have any control over the first two.  And that is why we are able to sell at the best wholesale prices.

• Our ability to maintain a smaller footprint than a big box retailer allows us to operate with a lower mark-up
• We leverage our purchase windows and stock up when prices are low, and then draw against this inventory when prices are spiking

QUESTION 2: But what affects the lumber prices on a larger, nationwide scale?

As is the case with most markets, lumber prices are driven by both speculation and real supply/demand.

Supply and demand effects are:

• Fuel prices, therefore harvest and delivery prices
• Weather issues dictating harvest costs (true story: Two winters ago it was nearly impossible for us to buy our lumber products due to a uniquely harsh winter in the Northeast USA, making harvesting impossible)
• Low interest rates driving building booms = high demand, low supply

Speculative effects which cas inflate prices are (even if they don’t make sense):

• Geopolitical turmoil 
• Natural disasters (Why do lumber prices spike the moment a hurricane hits?  Retailers are taking advantage of the speculative fears of their buyers)
• Government overreach fears (With lumber, this is effective as the duties and tariffs related to Canada have a great impact, as much USA lumber comes from Canada)

We pay attention to every one of these factors daily in order to drive down the prices for our clients and give you the most predictable experience possible. 

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1. Log Cabin Accent Wall

Using Heartwood’s log siding, create a focal accent wall in a bedroom or living room. This addition brings a touch of rustic charm and warmth, transforming a plain space into a cozy retreat reminiscent of traditional log cabins.

2. Fireplace Rustic Overhaul

Upgrade your fireplace with Heartwood’s hand-hewn mantels, complemented by a unique live-edge slab as the hearth. Seal and protect the wood with Cascade Clear Top Coat to ensure durability and a polished finish.

3. Wide-Plank Farmhouse Flooring

Revamp your floors with Heartwood’s rough-sawn wood flooring. The wide planks instantly elevate the space with a farmhouse appeal. To add character, consider a combination of wood stains, such as Capture Log Stain, to create a vintage, reclaimed wood look.

4. Rustic Outdoor Deck

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Understanding Wood Types and Their Characteristics

• Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: While hardwoods like oak are ideal for furniture due to their durability, softwoods like pine, perfect for paneling or flooring, bring in the quintessential rustic touch.
• Grain Patterns: The choice between tight or loose, straight or wavy grain can influence the overall look. For instance, woods like oak or ash with prominent grains can accentuate the rustic vibe.
• Natural Color Variations: Wood colors evolve over time. Cherry, for example, darkens with age, while maple remains consistent. It’s essential to factor in this evolution while making a choice.

Popular Choices for Rustic Decor

• Rough-Sawn Wood Flooring: A foundation for the rustic charm, Heartwood’s flooring ensures a rugged, traditional appearance.
• Pine Slabs and Countertops: Their light hue and noticeable grain give a countryside feel. Heartwood’s collection of slabs and countertops can serve as a starting point.
• Tongue and Groove Siding: Providing a unified look for walls and ceilings, options like the 1″x8″ Rustic T&G Economy at Heartwood offer a seamless yet rustic finish.

Enhancing Wood’s Natural Beauty with Stains and Finishes

• Preparing the Surface: Clean wood ensures even stain absorption. Products like CPR Log Cleaner cleanse and prep the wood.
• Staining: Enhancing and protecting the wood, stains like Capture Log Stain ensure the rustic aesthetic is both beautiful and enduring.
• Top Coats: Final touches, such as the Cascade Clear Top Coat, seal the stain and offer additional protection, ensuring longevity.

Conclusion

Crafting a rustic space is about harmonizing with nature, and the choice of wood is paramount in this endeavor. With Heartwood Log and Lumber’s expertise and product range, achieving this balance becomes a seamless task. Whether it’s a visit to the showroom or a call, let Heartwood guide your rustic journey.

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1. Choosing the Right Slab:

The first step is selecting a live-edge slab that meets your specific needs. Here are factors to consider:

• Size and Shape: Ensure the slab’s dimensions align with your desired furniture piece, whether it’s a coffee table, bench, or bar top.
• Grain and Features: Look for interesting grain patterns, knots, or burls that will enhance your finished piece.
• Wood Type: Consider the durability, color, and texture of the wood. Heartwood Log and Lumber offers a wide variety of slabs and countertops for you to choose from.

2. Preparing the Slab:

Once you have the right piece, it’s time to prep it.

• Clean: Use a soft brush to remove any dust or debris. For a deep clean, consider using a product like the CPR Log Cleaner.
• Sanding: Begin with coarse sandpaper and move to finer grits for a smooth finish. This step removes imperfections and preps the slab for finishing.

3. Stabilizing the Wood:

Given the natural edges, some slabs might have cracks or splits. To ensure longevity:

• Fill Cracks: Using products like the Big Stretch Caulk can help seal any fissures, preserving the wood’s integrity.
• Seal Edges: Apply a sealant, such as the Cascade Clear Top Coat, to protect the live edge and enhance its beauty.

4. Adding the Finish:

This step is crucial to highlight the wood’s natural beauty and protect it from environmental factors.

• Choosing a Stain: Products like Capture Log Stain or Transformation Log & Timber Stain can enhance the wood’s natural grain.
• Applying the Stain: For a flawless application, consider using the 3″ MBS Professional Quality Paint Brush.

5. Choosing and Installing Hardware:

Depending on your project, you may need legs for a table, handles for a tray, or brackets for shelves.

• Hardware Selection: Opt for materials that complement the wood’s natural look, such as wrought iron, brushed nickel, or raw steel.
• Installation: Ensure even weight distribution and securely attach the hardware, maintaining the slab’s balance.

Conclusion:

Crafting furniture from live-edge slabs not only yields a unique and stunning piece but also allows you to connect with the natural beauty of wood. By following these steps and utilizing Heartwood Log and Lumber’s top-notch products, you’re well on your way to creating a masterpiece that will be cherished for generations.

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Depending on the finish of your piece, it can change the way you take care of it. There are several precautions to consider other than standard cleaning. In today’s blog, Heartwood Log and Lumber discuss some of our favorite ways to preserve wood furniture for generations to come.

Specialty Cleaning Products

Many cleaning products claim to be the most effective, and safest for your wood furniture. However, with many different types of wood, and previous sealants or stains on the piece, it can be tricky to choose the best one. No matter what product you decide to use to polish and clean your wood furniture, make sure to use a clean, soft, and dry cloth as you evenly apply it across the surface. Always read the labels on these cleaning supplies to make sure they can be used on your specific furniture!

Wood Sealant

The wood sealant is used to put a protective barrier between the natural wood and whatever accident could take place. Often this is added almost immediately after being purchased to hold the same high-quality. The sealant works to protect the surface from future stains and to make messes easier to clean up!

Temperature Control

One easy way to preserve the quality of your custom wood furniture is to keep it in an environment away from harsh and fast-changing temperatures. For example, if you were to leave a piece of wood furniture on your front porch, it will not hold the same quality as long as a piece of wood furniture in your living room.

Immediate Fixes

One simple and effective treatment to implement is to clean up immediately after an accident. If you were to spill any liquid onto wood furniture, especially without sealant, it could warp the shape. When liquid fused into the wood, the wood can swell, ruining your custom wood furniture. It is also smart to fix or fill nicks and notches when they occur to prevent further splitting of the wood.

Custom Wood Furniture at Heartwood Log and Lumber

Looking for a new piece of custom wood furniture for your build? We know exactly how to take care of wood furniture, and we want to help you maintain your piece. Heartwood Log and Lumber specializes in high-quality lumber along with customizable furniture. To learn more about how we can help, visit our website! Our friendly staff is willing to answer any questions you might have, so contact Heartwood Log and Lumber today!

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What is Lumber?

One significant difference between lumber and timber is the stage in which the wood is being processed. Lumber is typically referred to as wooden boards that have been cut, processed, and finished. This style of wood is always free of bark, making it ready to be stained, installed, or customized. Often, lumber is sold in precut sizes such as 2×4, 4×4, and 12×12. After the wood is sawed, typically at a sawmill, it is known and sold as lumber.

What is Timber?

Timber typically refers to unprocessed tree trunks, still containing bark and grime. Most often, the process goes from tree to timber, then timber to lumber. Right after a tree is chopped or sawed down, the wood is known as timber. If you have ever wondered why the famous line to yell as a tree is on its way down is “Timber!” it refers to the transition from a tree to timber!

How Are They Similar?

Timber and lumber are sometimes interchangeable terms depending on your country of origin. In the United States, these terms are entirely separate; however, in Australia, they mean the same thing. In Canada, they adopted the term timber as a small measurement that is no less than five inches. However, it is traditionally phrased in a way to understand the stage at which the wood is being processed. Although timber does not always have to be transformed into lumber, it most often is. A typical example of timber is firewood, and an example of lumber would be planks to build a home.

Contact Heartwood Log and Lumber for Your Next Build

Heartwood Log and Lumber provides high-quality wood for an affordable price. We specialize in many fields such as hardwood flooring, custom furniture, log siding, and much more. Our professional team wants to make your future build a success, bringing you the best products possible. To learn more about the timber, lumber, and services we offer, visit our website. We also have a complete showroom, stocked with custom furniture and previous examples of our work. We encourage you to contact us today with any questions!

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1. Durability

Many types of wood can be used for new flooring. Wood flooring is durable with everyday wear-and-tear, pets, children, and even in high traffic areas. This flooring is pieced together in a way that holds a stable shape, preventing separation of individual slabs. Because they are installed in an interlocking fashion, they are more likely to withstand damage. If they do become damaged, they can be fixed rather easily.

2. Long-Lasting

A common thought when debating on what type of flooring to install is how long it will last. Hardwood flooring, when well maintained, can last a lifetime! Some centennial homes even have original hardwood floors, proving how long can last with everyday wear. The more you care for the hardwood, the longer it will stay in pristine condition. The duration of the floors can also be influenced by external factors such as foundation movement and installation, so make sure to examine the area before installation!

3. Easy to Clean

Hardwood flooring is one of the easiest surfaces to clean. At Heartwood Log and Lumber, we know accidents happen. Floors can be a dirty surface, becoming a home for spills and grime. Several cleaning supplies are made specifically for hardwood flooring, plus they repel stains much better than carpet. When it’s time for cleaning, run a vacuum, sweep, or mop the debris away, and they will be good as new.

4. Better Air Quality

Because hardwood flooring repels so much dirt and dust, it makes the overall air quality in the room better. Unlike carpet, it doesn’t trap all of the allergens and bacteria that can be in there for a lifetime. If you suffer from bad allergies, we recommend installing new hardwood flooring to reduce those annoying symptoms.

5. Cost-Effective

If you are considering installing hardwood, look at the long-term cost! These floors save money on cleaning supplies and services, as well as future repairs. This flooring also adds significant value to your home. Even though the initial cost of hardwood flooring can seem expensive, they are an excellent investment that will continue to impress.

New Hardwood Flooring from Heartwood Log and Lumber

Heartwood Log and Lumber specialize in high-quality flooring that is both cost-effective and long-lasting. Our rough sawn flooring brings a beautiful touch to your home, forming to any style you would like. We believe that hardwood flooring is timeless and compliments all houses. Check out or hardwood flooring services if you are considering renovating or building a home to find out how we can help you. Visit our website today for more products and services we offer, and contact us today!

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