There's more to purchasing wood than just browsing two-by-fours at your local Home Depot. If you're serious about only buying the best, here are five things to keep in mind as you go shopping for wood and wood products.
1. Buy From the Right Company
Some companies grow, cut, treat and sell their own wood. Others might purchase and inspect wood from third-party vendors before passing on the best stuff to their customers. There's no right or wrong answer when it comes to where you buy your wood, so look at all of your options before settling for one brand in particular.
2. Consider Sizes and Shapes
Lengths and widths are only the beginning. For example, you might also need a particular thickness or weight capacity in your wood, especially if you're building something that people will stand on. If you're unsure of the exact dimensions or specifications that your project requires, call a timber company and ask.
3. Look for Special Features
Pressure treated wood will last longer than its untreated cousins. So will wood that's been waterproofed or coated with a moisture-resistant finish. You can also find wood that's been sanded, shined and otherwise beautified for use in furniture-building. If any of these things are important to you, set aside a little extra in your budget to accommodate them.
4. Consider Your Finances
Speaking of budgets, you'll want to draft one before you start shopping for wood and wood products. This is the best way to stay within your means while you're tempted in every direction by special sales and deluxe mahogany blends. In addition, having a budget will help you assign value to things like cut, color and size, so you'll know in advance what you're willing to spend more to obtain.
5. Get a Guarantee
Last but certainly not least, always get a guarantee from the lumber company. It doesn't matter if this comes in the form of insurance, a product warranty or just a really nice return policy. You don't want to find yourself stuck with a half-ton of timber that you can't use and can't send back.
These are just a few things to keep in mind as you shop for wood. Whether you're building birdhouses or renovating your ranch, you'll need high-quality timber to create a high-quality product, so don't cut corners when it comes to your wood purchases.
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