How to Sell Residential Oak Tree Lumber
While oak trees can be an attractive addition to your yard, they're not for everyone. Large oak trees might shade your entire yard, making gardening impossible. You also might want more space for your children to play or so you can plant flowering trees. If you're planning to remove an oak tree, consider selling the lumber. Not all residential oak trees make good lumber trees, but there are other uses for oak wood if your tree lumber is poor quality.
Determine the approximate size and condition of your oak tree before you begin. Measure the circumference of the tree trunk using a measuring tape. Estimate the height of the tree trunk only, not the entire tree. Photograph the tree for later use in an auction process.
- While oak trees can be an attractive addition to your yard, they're not for everyone.
Locate a forester through your county extension office. Schedule an appointment. The forester can help you determine the value of your tree and may be able to put you in touch with sawmills, lumber companies or furniture makers looking for oak wood. The more flexible you are about a potential buyer, the more offers you may receive.
Discuss the tree's value with the forester on the day of the appointment. The forester can tell you if the tree is marred, damaged or poorly structured for lumber use. Straight, tall trees are valued more than squat, spreading trees.
- Locate a forester through your county extension office.
- The forester can help you determine the value of your tree and may be able to put you in touch with sawmills, lumber companies or furniture makers looking for oak wood.
Ask the forester for recommendations of potential buyers. Contact any buyers by telephone and tell them you are auctioning an oak tree. Mention the tree's size and offer to provide pictures.
Call any other potential buyers. Oak is a fine choice for furniture and artisan woodworking, so consider wood shops, woodworkers, artists and other craftsmen.
Provide those who express an interest with images, details and other specifications. Let them know when you will stop accepting bids.
- Ask the forester for recommendations of potential buyers.
- Contact any buyers by telephone and tell them you are auctioning an oak tree.
Review any bids. Choose the winning bid and call that person to discuss the removal date and payment process.
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