Sawmilling Methods

Milling a log into lumber involves cutting the log into boards of specific dimensions. The three main methods of sawmilling are plain sawing (also known as flat sawing), rift sawing, and quarter sawing. These methods involve cutting the log into uniform, rectangular boards that are well-suited for a variety of applications.

Plain sawing is the most common method of sawmilling and involves cutting the log into boards by making parallel cuts along the length of the log. This method produces boards with a cathedral-like grain pattern that is the most common and least expensive type of sawn lumber.

Rift sawing involves cutting the log at a slight angle to produce boards with a straight grain pattern. This method is less common and more expensive than plain sawing because it produces less lumber and requires more time to produce.