Mistakes to avoid when ordering wood from a sawmill

Ordering wood directly from a sawmill allows you to obtain a tailor-made, traceable and quality product. But for everything to go as well as possible, some mistakes should be avoided. Here are the main things you need to know in order to place an efficient order adapted to your project.

1. Not clearly defining your final need

Example: “I want wood to make furniture.”

Too vague: you have to specify the essence, the exact use, the dimensions, and the expected level of finish.

To do:

• Detail the project (furniture, parquet, stairs...)
• Specify whether the wood will be visible or structural
• Specify the constraints (humid environment, interior, exterior...)

2. Forget to specify sections and lengths

Sawmills work to measure. An order without precise dimensions can lead to errors or unnecessary losses.

Tip:

Provide a clear list the sections (thickness x width x length) desired. If necessary, ask the sawmill for advice beforehand.

3. Neglecting the desired humidity level

Wood can be dried, air-dried, or artificially dried. This humidity level changes according to use:

• Interior: artificial drying (10-12%)
• Exterior: wiped or light drying sufficient

Failure to specify this may result in deformations after delivery.

4. Do not anticipate deadlines

Dry woods and specific sections are not always in stock immediately.

Anticipate:

• Sawing, drying and preparation times
• A clear exchange with the sawmill allows the schedules to be adjusted.

5. Don't ask questions about traceability or origin

Ordering local and sustainable wood is essential today. Consider asking:

• Where does the wood come from (French forest? PEFC label?)
• Traceability guarantees

The VUITTON Sawmill approach

We support our professional customers in the choice of essences, sections, and drying. A good exchange beforehand makes it possible to avoid unpleasant surprises and to deliver wood that is perfectly suited to each use.