Frequently asked questions

A sawmill is a machine that processes raw logs into lumber by cutting them into various sizes and shapes. At NWB Sawmill & Lumber, we use a Woodmizer LT35, a portable sawmill that allows us to offer mobile milling. We also have an Alaskan Sawmill, which is a chainsaw mill used for cutting slabs and large logs. These tools enable us to handle a variety of projects and log sizes with precision.

Mobile sawmilling means we bring our sawmill to you, eliminating the need to transport heavy logs. This saves time, reduces waste, and allows for custom cuts on-site. You also keep all byproducts for firewood, garden beds, or other uses.

Bringing logs to us is an option if you prefer, or if space is limited for on-site milling. We can chat through options when we discuss your project.

We work with everything from pine trees to pear trees! Commonly milled species include pine, hemlock, ash, maple, cherry, cedar, and walnut.

Yield varies by log size and species, but as an example: a 20” diameter, 8’ long log typically produces about 165 board feet of lumber.

A board foot measures volume, not area. One board foot equals one square foot of wood at one-inch thick. Use this handy board foot calculator to estimate your yield.

Under ideal conditions, we can mill 300-500 board feet per hour. Factors like log quality, accessibility, and setup time affect production speed. We’ll provide an estimate specific to your project when we discuss your needs.

It depends on your intended use. Generally, straight logs without significant rot or breakage yield the best lumber for most projects.

There are endless possibilities!

• Softwoods like pine and spruce work well for dimensional lumber, siding, and framing (check local building codes).

• Hemlock and cedar are ideal for garden beds.

• Hardwoods can be used for furniture, flooring, paneling, and more.
  We love seeing what our customers create and are happy to discuss your project!

Absolutely! We’re happy to recommend the best cuts based on how you plan to use the wood.

Logs should be neatly stacked so the mill can be positioned directly alongside them. We recommend reaching out before staging your logs to ensure the best setup.

Let them know you plan to have the logs milled, so they can cut and stage them properly. If you're unsure about the process, reach out—we're happy to advise.

We need a level, stable area with enough room to maneuver logs and position the sawmill.

Yes, we can! Due to the extra handling required, we charge an hourly rate for this service.

Yes! We have specialized equipment, including a 7,500 lb winch, to extract logs from challenging or hard-to-reach areas.

Yes, sealing the ends slows moisture loss and helps prevent cracking. Anchorseal is the best product, but any thick outdoor paint will help.Item description

Stack and sticker your boards to allow airflow between layers. Keep your lumber under cover and out of the elements while ensuring air circulation. (Note: We provide stacking and stickering as part of our service.)

Yes, we partner with a local kiln to offer kiln drying services to properly season your lumber.

Yes! All sawdust and scraps remain on-site unless you prefer otherwise. These materials have many uses:

• Sawdust: Weed control, animal bedding, moisture absorption.

• Scrap wood: Campfire wood, kindling, sugar wood, or even siding—some of our customers have sided entire buildings using scrap!

We are based in Vermont and serve customers throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York. While we have no set travel limits, additional fees apply for long-distance jobs.