What you should do to prepare for a smooth sawmill operation:

  • Logs should be clean.
  • Limbs should be cut flush to the trunk.
  • Logs need to be free of nails or foreign objects.
  • Cut your logs to maximize lumber volume: cut out crooks, forks, excessive sweep, rot
    and other defects.
  • To store logs for one to two summers, coat the ends with log end sealer to prevent
    cracking and checking (this is important for Walnut, Oak and other hardwoods), stack
    on stringers, and store in shade if possible.
  • Leave ample room to work: my portable sawmill occupies 24' X 10'
  • A fairly level spot to work in, although some slope can be good for rolling logs down
    into mill.
  • One helper makes the biggest contribution to productivity. I can do all the work myself,
    but you’ll save money by helping.
  • Prepare a level area for stacking your cut lumber
  • Water should be available at the mill site. I use about 10 gallons an hour for keeping the
    blade clean and cool.
                         Other Considerations

Mill Site Access
I will need room to pull in with a pick up truck towing my mill and get turned around.
Let me know if there may be steep dirt roads or low hanging tree branches.

Lumber Stacking
Stacking and drying is an important part of the milling project. If you will be leaving
the lumber at the mill site prepare an area close to the mill for long term storage and
drying. If you will need to move the lumber having a truck or trailer on hand will save
time and effort.

Tailings
There will be tailings or "Lizard Backs" with bark that can be cut into fire wood or
can be used for rustic style construction including benches, fencing and log cabin
style construction. There will also be sawdust that can be spread out or bagged
All Rights Reserved. Designated trademarks and brands are the property of their
respective owners. Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of the West Coast Lands
website User Agreement and Privacy Policy.
© Copyright 2005 - 2010
Logs and Mill Site
Preparation
If you need help to have your trees cut down and prepared contact me.  I can
fall and move most trees as long as they are not hazard trees (near power lines
or houses).  For hazard trees I can recommend a tree service in your area.