time

[torence 20]

how long does it take a hard wood log about two foot in diameter to dry out for milling or can you mill them when they are freshly cut? what is proper preparation for the logs such as painting the ends? and is there a market for such a thing, i live in a small town in northern illinois and have been wanting to purchase a bandsaw mill, but have been a little torn as to what i want if there is a market for it and i can make some extra money at it , there isnt anyone who offers it as a service and we live in a fairly woodsy area any info is much appreciated thanks fellas

 

[BobL]

how long does it take a hard wood log about two foot in diameter to dry out for milling or can you mill them when they are freshly cut?

Mill'em Green is easier

what is proper preparation for the logs such as painting the ends?

Paint the ends with plastic house paint and keep them out of direct sunlight.

and is there a market for such a thing,

This is like asking how long is a piece of string.
Others closer to where you live can probably be more definitive.

 

[mtngun]

I use Baileys sealer on the ends. Works better than paint, goes farther, and doesn't cost any more.

I'm just a hobby miller, but I've seriously considered getting a bandmill and the business opportunities or lack thereof.

If you try to sell lumber you'll be competing with Home Depot, better to sell your milling services, charging by the board foot or by the day. Exception being if someone offers you good logs for free, then you are not out anything but your time and you may eventually be able to sell the lumber to a local woodworker -- assuming you have a place to store the lumber.

With housing starts way down, I can't see making a living at milling right now. However, if you enjoy milling as a hobby, then a part time milling business could be a way to create a tax deduction for your hobby and perhaps some day you'll actually turn a profit. I think that's the only sane approach for someone starting out in this economy.

 

[Coalsmoke]

I use Baileys sealer on the ends. Works better than paint, goes farther, and doesn't cost any more.

I'm just a hobby miller, but I've seriously considered getting a bandmill and the business opportunities or lack thereof.

If you try to sell lumber you'll be competing with Home Depot, better to sell your milling services, charging by the board foot or by the day. Exception being if someone offers you good logs for free, then you are not out anything but your time and you may eventually be able to sell the lumber to a local woodworker -- assuming you have a place to store the lumber.

With housing starts way down, I can't see making a living at milling right now. However, if you enjoy milling as a hobby, then a part time milling business could be a way to create a tax deduction for your hobby and perhaps some day you'll actually turn a profit. I think that's the only sane approach for someone starting out in this economy.

Not necessarily. My entire customer base is high end and custom cuts. They come to me because I supply them with better quality or simply pieces that stores like Home Depot cannot offer. To be in this wood business requires a different mindset.

To the original poster, a lot depends on your specific location, and what people are willing to pay for wood products. One thing I'll say, word of mouth can be a great selling method if you cut good wood at a fair price.