Finding materials at lumber yards

Visiting lumber yards is typically enjoyable experience for most woodworkers, because lumber yards contain large amounts of materials for woodworking projects. Just looking at the lumber available at lumber yards is enough to stimulate ideas, and many woodworkers have returned from the lumberyard with enough wood for three or four projects! However, the cost-conscious woodworker can use lumber yards as a great place to find reasonably priced materials.

There are several keys to shopping at lumber yards, and paying attention to these keys can help you stick to your budget. These key planning points can also help in your search for great deals:

• Make a lumberyard list before you go
• Phone several lumber yards for prices
• Search lumber yards for distressed or damaged materials
• Make a friend at your lumberyard

Make a lumberyard list

It may sound a bit simple, but making a list before your visit to the lumberyard and then sticking to that list can help you avoid cost overruns. You can also put your budget amounts on the list to make sure you spend only what you have budgeted; these figures may also help you negotiate with lumberyard staff to get a better price.

Phone lumber yards for prices

The price of lumber at lumber yards fluctuates regularly, usually based on market conditions. Phoning around before your shopping trip can give you a good idea of who has the best prices. You can also use these prices to see if other lumber yards will match or beat prices. By negotiating a little you can save yourself having to drive to several different lumber yards for all your materials.

Search lumber yards for discount lumber

Lumber yards often take delivery of seconds: lumber that has failed quality control or has been produced with odd lengths. While this lumber may be unfit for sale as "spec" material, you can often find smaller pieces that will work for your projects. If your lumberyard has a discount section, bring your work gloves and be prepared to sort through this lumber: you may find the right piece at a sweet price.

Make a friend at the lumberyard

The staffs at lumber yards spend all day dealing with demanding contractors and do it yourselfers. Coming into the lumberyard with a cheerful and friendly attitude can sometimes get you better service, quality material, and even lower prices at lumber yards.