How To Responsibly Source Your Timber
Posted on: 4 June 2020
Whether you're building the home of your dreams or laying down some new flooring, you're going to need a timber supplier.
While wood is naturally one of the most environmentally friendly building materials you can use, it's important to consider where you're sourcing your timber from!
For small-scale projects
You might want to consider searching around for new home construction sites, old sheds and barns in your area, and local listings online for reclaimed wood. In many cases, this wood is otherwise going to a dump, and people will be willing to give it away or sell it to you below cost. This is a cheap, eco-friendly way to source materials for smaller projects. But what should you do if you're looking for timber suppliers for your bigger projects?
For large-scale projects
You're going to need a larger timber supplier. There are a number of US-based companies that manage and maintain woodlands in order to harvest trees for lumber production. Thankfully, many of these companies strive for renewable and sustainable practices. Trees are a product after all, and it's not very profitable to run out of inventory.
There are a number of labels to look out for, which represent different certifications and organizations that guarantee sustainable practices. To list a few:
- Sustainable Forestry Initiative
- Forest Stewardship Council
- Southern Forest Products Association
- Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification
- American Tree Farm System
Perhaps the most stringent of the bunch is the Forest Stewardship Council, which covers ethical concerns such as workplace safety, indigenous rights, and sustainably sourced timber. However, all of these certifications indicate eco-friendly sourcing and should all be considered when selecting a timber supplier.
Sustainability and Variety
Going with a reputable US-based company will not only provide you with peace of mind but also with a great variety of woods. There is a huge range of tree species growing in the US, including alder, basswood, beech, hard maple, cedar, and much more. Each of them will provide a unique look, as well as different attributes that make them advantageous for different applications. For a beautiful warm-colored trim or support beam, a cedar timber supplier might be the way to go. For a cozy interior project, cherry offers deep tones, which is great for furniture or flooring. The possibilities are vast! Of course, each variety will also have its own price tag, so remember to keep your budget in mind.
Contact a company like Liese Lumber Co Inc to learn more.
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