Treated ends vs 104

[westyswoods]

Which is better for marketing logs. Cut to 104 when looking to market at 96" or cut to a little over 96 and treat the butts with woods sealer.

My understanding is if cut 104 end checking will not go deeper than 4 inches and thats the reason for extra length.

I am sure there are many variables any info will be appreciated. Start doing some select cutting this morning, not a volume which would make treating prohibitive but also don't want to waste time and money if it is not going to pay.

My thoughts are that extra 6 to 8 inches in certain cased could be the difference between a good saw log or not.

Thanks for any responses

Westy

[chevytaHOE5674]

Find out from whom ever is going to be buying the logs.

Around "here" if its shorter than 102 it usually gets bumped down a grade and sometimes goes straight to a grade 3 if its too short. Also as a log buyer I don't like buying logs that are end sealed because it makes it hard to spot defects and heart size in the ends (which affects log grade).

[Ron Wenrich]

We don't end seal unless its absolutely necessary.  The only logs that get it are export veneer.  Domestic veneer isn't sealed.  We seal no sawlogs.  To prevent end checking and splits in logs, we use an "S" hook. Some buyers have some sort of plastic "I" that they drive in.  Those you can saw through.   

When the buyers come in, they often cut the end of the log off to see the defect, as mentioned. 

[stavebuyer]

Most buyers prefer extra trim for the reasons mentioned...also 8' lengths tend to be frowned upon in Veneer and prime grades of many species of sawlogs and tie producers will probably want them 8'8". I'd make a call or visit your buyer before bucking.

[westyswoods]

Thanks to all for the responses. All are being cut 8" over as many have stated.
No sealing.

Again Thanks
Westy

[bill m]

What kind of trees are you cutting, hardwood or softwood? Check with your log buyer to find out what they want. A lot of mills do not want 8 ft. pine ( if that's what you may be cutting). Some mills will pay more for longer lengths, 12,14 or 16 ft. Also some mills will take 4 inches of trim, others want 6 or even 8 inches depending on grade.

[thecfarm]

Where are you? Get a spec sheet for the mill. You can lose a lot of money by not cutting their way. Can lose alot just by not cutting out a 2 foot bad section out of a log too.

[Ron Scott]

Yes, always check first with your buyer.