Lumber attributes, characteristics, and species preferences as indicated by secondary wood products firms in the continental United States

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to evaluate selected lumber attributes, species preferences, and lumber use properties among secondary wood manufacturers in the United States. Our sample included producers of kitchencabinets, furniture, doors, windows, and molded products who attended regional and national wood manufacturing events. More than 51% of respondents had annual sales of less than $500000, and the median company size was five employees. Results are presented for 17 selected lumber attributes, and indicate that appearance-related attributes were generally the most important, and that use of certified lumber was generally the least important. Price-related attributes (including low price and price stability) were generally intermediate in importance. There were statistically significant differences among geographic regions for four of the attributes, and among business types for three of the attributes. The most popular species for use by secondary manufacturers included the oaks, maple, and cherry, and there were strong preferences for kiln-dried, 4/4 (2.54 cm) lumber having random length and width.