Methods of Sawing Timbers and Techniques

Sawn timbers is made available in different shapes and sizes. Usually sawn timber products consist of rectangular cut timber and timber beams. Wood logs are usually cut in three ways: Plain sawn, rift sawn and quarter sawn. Orientation of the log decides the way how its cut at the sawmill. Most of the times, timber is cut in varying widths and length sometimes it can be wedge shaped too.

When selecting the right type of timber it is essential that you look into all the different types available in the market. Each type has its own properties and strengths which can be used for different purposes.


Rough sawn timber is timber that is cut out of logs into different shapes and sizes. Is cut out of logs directly. It can be cut into many different shapes and sizes. This type of timber is sawn and dried before it is treated. As the name suggests, this type of timber has a rough and rustic looking texture.

Dried dressed timber is referred to as timber with a polished and finished effect. This timber is not raw therefore it has a sleeker look to it. To reduce shrinkage, drying is done after treatment. This timber is used where finished look is required for instance outdoor areas, decks and pergolas.

Sawing Patterns

There are plenty dressed and rough sawn timber suppliers which will cater to your every need. Below we have provided information on different sawing patterns of timber:

PLAIN SAWN / FLAT SAWN

It is the most commonly used type of timber. Plain sawn is easy on the pocket as it is the least expensive among the other lumbers. It is also known as flat sawn. It is material efficient and has beautiful grainy patterns. The annular rings of a plain sawn lumber is about 30 degrees to the face of board which is also known as tangential grain.

QUARTER SAWN

It is expensive as compared to the plain sawn lumber. It has a unique grain pattern. This lumber is sawed at a radial angle in four quarters. This is where they get the name “quarter sawn” from. The annular growth rings in quarter sawn lumber are intersecting the board from 60 to 90 degree.

Due to its straight grain pattern, it is used in flooring, furniture, cabinetry and crafts. It is the most stable type of timber with high resistance towards moisture.

RIFT SAWN

Rift sawn wood is the most expensive type of lumber. Rift sawn timber suppliers are limited due to which it is the least common type of sawn timber. Rift sawn produces the strongest and most durable board with consistent patterns. It is the prime choice of furniture makers who are looking for consistency in their designs.

LIVE SAWN MILLING

Live sawn milling is a blended mix of all milling types. It is a newer method in which logs are cut into planks more efficiently. This sawing method manufactures boards with varying angles from 0 to 90 degrees.