What do tree cutters do with the wood?

Tree cutters process the removed wood for a variety of purposes, ensuring different parts of the tree are utilized efficiently based on their quality and type.

Diverse Destinations for Cut Wood

The fate of the wood largely depends on its quality, size, and the specific type of tree. From construction materials to garden mulch, almost every part of a felled tree can find a new purpose.

1. High-Grade Lumber Production

Portions of the tree that are straight, free of major defects, and of significant diameter are often processed into lumber. This valuable wood is destined for various construction and manufacturing industries.

• Dimensional Lumber: Many logs are milled into standard sizes like 2x4s, 6x6s, and various sized boards. These are fundamental building blocks for residential and commercial construction, framing, and general building projects.
• Fine Wood Products: Higher-grade logs, often from specific tree species known for their aesthetic appeal and durability, become lumber for fine wood products. This includes wood used for high-quality furniture, intricate molding, flooring, cabinetry, and other specialized applications where the grain, color, and strength are paramount. The superior the grade of the log, the more exquisite and valuable the finished product will be.

2. Pulp and Wood Chips

Lower-grade wood, smaller branches, or parts of the tree not suitable for solid lumber are processed differently.

• Pulpwood: Significant quantities of wood, particularly smaller trees or less perfect sections, are designated as pulpwood. This wood is transported to chip mills where it is processed into wood chips. These chips are then used to produce paper, cardboard, and other cellulose-based products.
• Wood Chips/Mulch: On-site chippers are frequently used by tree service companies to convert branches and smaller pieces of wood into wood chips. These chips can be utilized for:
  • Landscaping Mulch: Excellent for retaining soil moisture, suppressing weeds, and enriching soil as they decompose.
  • Biomass Fuel: Wood chips can be burned in specialized power plants to generate electricity or heat, offering a renewable energy source.
  • Compost Material: Adding wood chips to compost piles can improve aeration and contribute organic matter.

3. Firewood

A common use for suitable sections of a felled tree is firewood. Tree cutters often cut larger limbs and trunk sections into manageable lengths for splitting. This provides a natural, renewable source of heating fuel for homes and businesses. Many tree service companies offer firewood for sale or sometimes leave it with the homeowner if requested.

4. Specialized Uses and Recycling

Beyond the primary categories, wood can also be directed towards more niche uses or recycling initiatives.

• Slabs for Furniture/Art: Unique or large tree sections might be cut into live-edge slabs, highly sought after by artisans and furniture makers for custom tables, benches, and decorative pieces.
• Donation/Community Use: In some cases, wood may be donated to local schools, community gardens, or non-profit organizations for various projects or heating assistance programs.
• Biochar Production: Some wood can be converted into biochar, a charcoal-like substance used for soil amendment to improve fertility and carbon sequestration.

The table below summarizes the main destinations for wood after tree removal:

By diverting wood to these various channels, tree cutters contribute to sustainable forestry practices and minimize waste, ensuring that a natural resource finds its optimal purpose.