How to Score Lumber Without Breaking the Bank

TLDRLumber prices are skyrocketing, but there are ways to get the wood you need for your projects without spending a fortune. Check out these tips on finding affordable and even free lumber.

Key insights

🔥Lumber prices are expected to remain high for the rest of the year.

💰Big box hardware stores and lumber yards are not the best places to buy wood due to high prices and limited selection.

🛠️Specialty lumber stores and online sellers may offer high-quality wood, but at a higher cost.

🆓Wood pallets are a great source of free wood, but be mindful of quality and treatment.

🌲Local sawmills, hobby sawyers, classified ads, salvage lumber, and cabinet shops are excellent sources of affordable or free wood.

Q&A

Where can I find affordable lumber?

You can find affordable lumber at local sawmills, hobby sawyers, classified ads, salvage lumber, and even cabinet shops.

Why shouldn't I buy wood from big box hardware stores?

Big box hardware stores usually have high prices and limited selection when it comes to wood. It's best to explore other options for more affordable and diverse choices.

Are online sellers a good option for buying wood?

Online wood sellers can offer high-quality wood, but it might not be the most economical choice for large projects. It's more suitable for smaller items like turning blanks.

Can I get wood for free?

Yes, you can find free wood from sources like wood pallets, local sawmills, hobby sawyers, and classified ads. Just be cautious of the quality and treatment of the wood.

Which sources provide the best quality wood?

Specialty lumber stores, local sawmills, and cabinet shops are known for offering high-quality wood. However, the prices may be higher compared to other sources.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Lumber prices are still extremely high, forcing people to pause their hobbies and projects.

00:23Lumber prices might remain high for the rest of the year.

01:28Big box hardware stores are convenient, but they have higher prices and limited selection.

01:56Specialty lumber stores and online sellers offer high-quality wood but at higher prices.

02:14Wood pallets are a great source of free wood, but choose carefully and avoid treated pallets.

03:21Local sawmills, hobby sawyers, classified ads, salvage lumber, and cabinet shops are affordable or free sources of wood.

05:40Salvaging wood from old sheds, barns, fences, and furniture can provide quality lumber for projects.

06:58Local cabinet shops often have high-quality scraps that they're willing to give away.