Trailer 35 Wood Processing Tips (5 Pro Arborist Techniques)

Ever been stuck trying to split a gnarly log with a dull axe? We’ve all been there. A quick fix is to use a small wedge and sledgehammer to start the split before you even swing the axe. This little trick alone can save you a lot of sweat and frustration. Now, let’s dive into 35 wood processing tips, including 5 pro arborist techniques that will transform how you handle wood, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.

Why These Tips Matter

Efficient wood processing translates directly into cost savings, reduced labor, and increased safety. Poor techniques can lead to injuries, wasted wood, and unnecessary delays. By adopting the methods and tools outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to:

Reduce Physical Strain: Proper techniques minimize the effort required for each task.
Increase Efficiency: Streamlined processes mean you get more done in less time.
Enhance Safety: Knowing how to handle tools and wood safely prevents accidents.
Improve Wood Quality: Correct drying and storage methods preserve the value of your wood.
Maximize Resource Use: Minimizing waste ensures you get the most out of every tree.

Key Terms and Concepts

Before we dive into the tips, let’s define some essential terms:

Green Wood: Freshly cut wood with high moisture content. It’s heavier and harder to split than seasoned wood.
Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been allowed to dry, reducing its moisture content. Seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke. Target moisture content for firewood is typically between 15-20%.
Felling: The process of cutting down a tree.
Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
Bucking: Cutting a log into shorter, more manageable lengths.
Splitting: Dividing logs into smaller pieces for firewood.
Stacking: Arranging firewood in a way that promotes air circulation and efficient drying.
Kerf: The width of the cut made by a saw blade.
Bar Oil: Special oil used to lubricate the chain and bar of a chainsaw.

1. Chainsaw Safety First

Safety is paramount when working with chainsaws. I remember my first chainsaw experience – I was so eager to get started that I almost forgot to put on my safety glasses. A small piece of wood flew up and hit me square in the face. Luckily, I wasn’t seriously injured, but it was a stark reminder of the importance of safety gear.

Always wear appropriate safety gear: This includes a helmet with a face shield, ear protection, chainsaw chaps, gloves, and sturdy boots.
Inspect your chainsaw before each use: Check the chain tension, bar lubrication, and throttle control.
Use the correct stance: Keep your feet firmly planted and maintain a wide base of support.
Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for overhead hazards, bystanders, and uneven terrain.
Never cut above shoulder height: This increases the risk of losing control of the chainsaw.
Use both hands: Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands at all times.
Turn off and engage the chain brake: Whenever moving more than a few feet or setting the saw down.

2. Chainsaw Maintenance

A well-maintained chainsaw is a safe and efficient chainsaw. I once spent an entire afternoon trying to cut through a log with a dull chain. It was exhausting and dangerous. Since then, I’ve made chainsaw maintenance a top priority.

Sharpen your chain regularly: A sharp chain cuts faster, requires less force, and reduces the risk of kickback. I typically sharpen my chain after every two tanks of gas.
Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow and reduces engine performance. Clean it with compressed air or soapy water.
Check and adjust chain tension: A loose chain can derail, while a tight chain can overheat and break.
Lubricate the chain: Use a high-quality bar oil to keep the chain and bar properly lubricated.
Inspect the spark plug: A fouled spark plug can cause starting problems. Clean or replace it as needed.
Drain the fuel tank: If you’re not going to use your chainsaw for an extended period, drain the fuel tank to prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor.

3. Felling Techniques: The Hinge is Key

Felling a tree safely and accurately requires careful planning and execution. The hinge is the most important element. It controls the direction of the fall. I’ve seen too many amateur fellers ignore the hinge and end up with trees falling in unpredictable directions.

Assess the tree: Look for lean, wind direction, and any obstacles that could affect the fall.
Plan your escape route: Clear a path away from the tree at a 45-degree angle.
Make the undercut: Cut a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The undercut should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
Make the back cut: Cut from the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the undercut. Leave a hinge of wood to control the fall. The hinge should be about 1/10 of the tree’s diameter.
Use wedges: If the tree doesn’t start to fall on its own, use wedges to help push it over.
Watch the tree: As the tree falls, watch for any unexpected movement and be prepared to move quickly.

4. Limbing and Bucking: Efficiency is King

Limbing and bucking can be time-consuming tasks, but there are ways to make them more efficient. I once watched a seasoned logger limb and buck an entire tree in a matter of minutes. He moved with a purpose, using every movement to his advantage.

Limb from the base to the top: This allows you to work with gravity, rather than against it.
Use the chainsaw’s bumper spikes: These can help you pivot the chainsaw and make more efficient cuts.
Buck logs to the desired length: Consider the size of your wood stove or fireplace when determining the length of your firewood. I typically buck my logs to 16-inch lengths.
Use a log jack: A log jack lifts the log off the ground, making it easier to buck and preventing the chainsaw from hitting the ground.
Avoid cutting into the ground: This can dull your chain and damage your chainsaw.

5. Splitting Wood: Choosing the Right Tool

Splitting wood can be a back-breaking task if you’re not using the right tool. I started out using a cheap axe, and after a few hours, my back would be screaming. Investing in a good splitting axe or a hydraulic splitter can make a world of difference.

Use a splitting axe: A splitting axe has a heavier head and a wider blade than a felling axe, making it more effective for splitting wood.
Use a maul: A maul is a combination of an axe and a sledgehammer. It’s ideal for splitting large, knotty logs.
Use a hydraulic log splitter: A hydraulic log splitter can split even the toughest logs with ease. They’re more expensive than axes or mauls, but they can save you a lot of time and effort.
Split wood when it’s green: Green wood is easier to split than seasoned wood. The moisture content acts as a lubricant.
Aim for the cracks: Look for natural cracks in the wood and aim your axe or maul at them.
Use a splitting wedge: For particularly tough logs, use a splitting wedge and a sledgehammer to start the split.

6. Stacking Firewood: Airflow is Your Friend

Properly stacking firewood is essential for efficient drying. I’ve seen stacks of firewood that were so tightly packed that they never dried properly. The wood ended up rotting from the inside out.

Choose a sunny, windy location: This will promote air circulation and speed up the drying process.
Elevate the wood off the ground: Use pallets, cinder blocks, or scrap wood to keep the wood off the ground and prevent it from absorbing moisture.
Stack the wood loosely: Leave space between the logs to allow for air circulation.
Cover the top of the stack: Use a tarp or piece of plywood to protect the wood from rain and snow.
Stack in a single row: Single rows dry faster than multiple rows.
Consider a Swedish stack: A Swedish stack is a circular stack of wood that provides excellent stability and airflow.

7. Drying Wood: Patience is a Virtue

Drying wood takes time, but it’s essential for efficient burning. I once tried to burn green wood in my wood stove, and it was a disaster. It produced a lot of smoke, very little heat, and left a thick layer of creosote in my chimney.

Allow wood to season for at least six months: The longer the wood seasons, the better it will burn.
Check the moisture content: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood. Aim for a moisture content of 15-20% for firewood.
Split wood before drying: Splitting wood increases the surface area exposed to air, which speeds up the drying process.
Consider using a kiln: A kiln can dry wood much faster than air drying, but it’s a more expensive option.

8. Wood Identification: Know Your Species

Different types of wood have different burning characteristics. Knowing your wood species can help you choose the best wood for your needs. I once burned a load of poplar in my wood stove, thinking it was oak. It burned quickly and produced very little heat.

Hardwoods burn longer and produce more heat: Examples include oak, maple, ash, and beech.
Softwoods burn faster and produce less heat: Examples include pine, fir, and spruce.
Consider the density of the wood: Denser woods burn longer and produce more heat.
Use a wood identification guide: There are many excellent wood identification guides available online and in print.

9. Tool Sharpening: A Sharp Tool is a Safe Tool

A sharp tool is not only more efficient, but it’s also safer. A dull axe or chainsaw requires more force to use, which increases the risk of losing control and injuring yourself.

Sharpen your axe regularly: Use a sharpening stone or a file to keep your axe blade sharp.
Sharpen your chainsaw chain regularly: Use a chainsaw chain sharpener to keep your chain sharp.
Learn the proper sharpening techniques: There are many resources available online and in print that can teach you how to sharpen your tools properly.

10. Log Handling: Lift with Your Legs

Lifting heavy logs can put a lot of strain on your back. Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

Bend your knees and keep your back straight: This will help you lift with your legs, rather than your back.
Keep the log close to your body: This will reduce the amount of strain on your back.
Avoid twisting while lifting: This can put a lot of stress on your spine.
Use a log carrier: A log carrier can make it easier to carry heavy logs.
Get help: If a log is too heavy to lift safely, get someone to help you.

11. Chainsaw Filing: Precision is Key

Filing a chainsaw chain correctly is essential for efficient cutting. I remember the first time I tried to file a chainsaw chain. I ended up making the cutters uneven, and the chain wouldn’t cut straight.

Use a chainsaw filing kit: A chainsaw filing kit includes everything you need to file your chain correctly.
Maintain the correct filing angle: The correct filing angle will vary depending on the type of chain you’re using. Consult your chainsaw’s owner’s manual for the correct angle.
File each cutter evenly: Make sure to file each cutter the same amount to ensure that the chain cuts straight.
Use a depth gauge tool: A depth gauge tool helps you maintain the correct depth of the rakers.
Practice: Filing a chainsaw chain correctly takes practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time.

12. Wood Storage: Protect Your Investment

Proper wood storage is essential for preventing rot and decay. I’ve seen piles of firewood that were completely ruined by rot because they weren’t stored properly.

Store wood off the ground: This will prevent it from absorbing moisture from the ground.
Cover the top of the wood pile: This will protect the wood from rain and snow.
Allow for air circulation: This will help the wood dry out and prevent rot.
Store wood away from buildings: This will reduce the risk of termites and other pests.

13. Chainsaw Kickback: Be Aware

Chainsaw kickback is a sudden, uncontrolled movement of the chainsaw that can cause serious injury. I’ve experienced chainsaw kickback a few times, and it’s a terrifying experience.

Be aware of the kickback zone: The kickback zone is the upper quadrant of the chainsaw bar.
Avoid plunging the tip of the bar into wood: This is a common cause of kickback.
Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw: This will help you control the chainsaw if it kicks back.
Use a chainsaw with a chain brake: A chain brake can stop the chain quickly in the event of kickback.
Take a chainsaw safety course: A chainsaw safety course can teach you how to avoid kickback and other chainsaw hazards.

14. Using Wedges: Splitting Made Easier

Wedges are invaluable tools for splitting tough or knotty logs. They allow you to apply force precisely where it’s needed.

Choose the right wedge: Steel wedges are durable and effective for most splitting tasks.
Position the wedge: Place the wedge in a crack or along a grain line in the log.
Strike the wedge firmly: Use a sledgehammer or maul to drive the wedge into the log.
Use multiple wedges: For particularly tough logs, use multiple wedges to split the wood evenly.
Avoid striking the wedge at an angle: This can cause the wedge to slip or break.

15. Chainsaw Bar Maintenance: Keep it Clean

A clean and well-maintained chainsaw bar is essential for efficient cutting. Debris and pitch can build up on the bar, reducing its performance and increasing the risk of damage.

Clean the bar regularly: Use a wire brush or a putty knife to remove debris and pitch from the bar.
Check the bar rails: The bar rails should be smooth and even. If they’re damaged, the chain may not run smoothly.
Lubricate the bar: Use a high-quality bar oil to keep the bar properly lubricated.
Flip the bar: Flipping the bar periodically will help to distribute wear evenly.
Replace the bar: If the bar is damaged beyond repair, replace it with a new one.

16. Firewood Calculations: Estimate Your Needs

Knowing how much firewood you need can save you time and money. I remember one winter when I ran out of firewood in the middle of a cold snap. I had to scramble to find a local supplier, and I ended up paying a premium price.

Measure your wood stove or fireplace: This will help you determine the size of the wood you need.
Estimate your heating needs: Consider the size of your home, the climate, and your heating habits.
Use a firewood calculator: There are many online firewood calculators that can help you estimate your needs.
Order your firewood in advance: This will give you time to season the wood properly.
Store extra firewood: It’s always a good idea to have some extra firewood on hand in case of emergencies.

17. Working with Knots: A Challenge

Knots can make splitting wood difficult and dangerous. They create weak points and can cause the wood to split unpredictably.

Avoid splitting knots: If possible, split the wood around the knots.
Use a splitting wedge: A splitting wedge can help you split through knots.
Use a hydraulic log splitter: A hydraulic log splitter can split even the most stubborn knots.
Be careful: Knots can cause the wood to split unexpectedly, so be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves.
Consider the knot’s position: Sometimes, changing the angle of attack can make splitting easier.

18. Chainsaw Chain Selection: Match the Task

Choosing the right chainsaw chain can significantly improve cutting efficiency and safety. Different chains are designed for different types of wood and cutting conditions.

Consider the pitch: The pitch of the chain is the distance between the rivets. A smaller pitch chain is better for softer woods, while a larger pitch chain is better for harder woods.
Consider the gauge: The gauge of the chain is the thickness of the drive links. The gauge must match the gauge of the chainsaw bar.
Consider the type of cutter: Different types of cutters are designed for different cutting conditions.
Consult your chainsaw’s owner’s manual: Your chainsaw’s owner’s manual will recommend the best type of chain for your chainsaw.
Ask your local chainsaw dealer: Your local chainsaw dealer can help you choose the right chain for your needs.

19. Splitting Techniques: The Quarter Split

The quarter-splitting technique is a method for splitting large logs into manageable pieces. It involves splitting the log into quarters before splitting each quarter into smaller pieces.

Start with a clean log: Remove any dirt or debris from the log.
Split the log in half: Use a splitting axe or maul to split the log in half.
Split each half in half again: This will create four quarters.
Split each quarter into smaller pieces: Use a splitting axe or maul to split each quarter into smaller pieces.
Be careful: Splitting large logs can be dangerous, so be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves.

20. Chainsaw Starting: The Proper Procedure

Starting a chainsaw correctly can prevent injuries and prolong the life of the chainsaw. I’ve seen too many people struggle to start a chainsaw, yanking on the starter cord until they’re exhausted.

Engage the chain brake: This will prevent the chain from moving while you’re starting the chainsaw.
Place the chainsaw on a flat surface: This will help to stabilize the chainsaw.
Prime the carburetor: Press the primer bulb several times to prime the carburetor.
Set the choke: Set the choke to the “start” position.
Pull the starter cord: Pull the starter cord firmly until the engine starts.
Gradually open the choke: Once the engine starts, gradually open the choke until the engine is running smoothly.

21. Working with Green Wood: Extra Precautions

Green wood presents unique challenges due to its high moisture content. It’s heavier, harder to split, and more prone to rot.

Split green wood as soon as possible: Green wood is easier to split than seasoned wood.
Use a splitting wedge: A splitting wedge can help you split tough green wood.
Allow green wood to season for at least six months: Green wood needs to season for a longer period of time than seasoned wood.
Store green wood properly: Green wood is more prone to rot, so be sure to store it properly.
Consider the weight: Green wood is significantly heavier, so be mindful when lifting.

22. Chainsaw Carburetor Adjustment: Fine-Tuning

Adjusting the carburetor on your chainsaw can improve its performance and fuel efficiency. However, it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the engine.

Consult your chainsaw’s owner’s manual: Your chainsaw’s owner’s manual will provide instructions on how to adjust the carburetor.
Locate the carburetor adjustment screws: The carburetor adjustment screws are typically located on the side of the carburetor.
Adjust the low-speed screw: The low-speed screw controls the engine’s idle speed.
Adjust the high-speed screw: The high-speed screw controls the engine’s maximum speed.
Make small adjustments: Make small adjustments to the carburetor adjustment screws and listen to the engine.
Seek professional help: If you’re not comfortable adjusting the carburetor yourself, take your chainsaw to a qualified mechanic.

23. Firewood Delivery: Efficient Transport

Efficient firewood delivery can save you time and effort. Whether you’re delivering firewood to your own home or to customers, it’s important to have a plan.

Use a truck or trailer: A truck or trailer can make it easier to transport large quantities of firewood.
Use a log splitter: A log splitter can make it easier to load and unload firewood.
Stack the firewood neatly: This will prevent the firewood from shifting during transport.
Use straps or ropes: Use straps or ropes to secure the firewood to the truck or trailer.
Drive carefully: Drive carefully and avoid sudden stops or turns.

24. Working with Different Wood Types: Adapt Your Approach

Different types of wood have different properties and require different approaches to processing. Knowing the characteristics of each wood type can help you choose the right tools and techniques.

Hardwoods: Hardwoods are dense and burn slowly, making them ideal for firewood.
Softwoods: Softwoods are less dense and burn quickly, making them ideal for kindling.
Consider the grain: The grain of the wood can affect how easily it splits.
Consider the moisture content: The moisture content of the wood can affect how easily it burns.
Adapt your techniques: Adapt your techniques to the specific type of wood you’re working with.

25. Chainsaw Storage: Protect Your Investment

Proper chainsaw storage can prolong the life of your chainsaw and prevent damage. I’ve seen chainsaws that were completely ruined by improper storage.

Clean the chainsaw: Clean the chainsaw thoroughly before storing it.
Drain the fuel tank: Drain the fuel tank to prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor.
Remove the chain and bar: Remove the chain and bar and clean them thoroughly.
Store the chainsaw in a dry place: Store the chainsaw in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
Cover the chainsaw: Cover the chainsaw to protect it from dust and dirt.

26. Using a Log Jack: Back Saver

A log jack is a tool that lifts logs off the ground, making it easier to buck and split them. It can save you a lot of back strain.

Choose the right log jack: Choose a log jack that is the right size for the logs you’re working with.
Position the log jack: Position the log jack under the log.
Lift the log: Use the log jack to lift the log off the ground.
Buck or split the log: Buck or split the log while it’s lifted off the ground.
Lower the log: Lower the log back to the ground.

27. Firewood Sales: Business Tips

If you’re selling firewood, there are a few things you can do to increase your sales and profits.

Offer a variety of wood types: Offer a variety of wood types to meet the needs of different customers.
Offer different sizes of firewood: Offer different sizes of firewood to meet the needs of different customers.
Season your firewood properly: Season your firewood properly to ensure that it burns efficiently.
Deliver your firewood: Offer delivery services to make it easier for customers to buy your firewood.
Advertise your firewood: Advertise your firewood online and in your local community.

28. Chainsaw Chain Brake: Test Regularly

The chainsaw chain brake is a critical safety device that can prevent serious injuries. It’s important to test it regularly to ensure that it’s working properly.

Engage the chain brake: Engage the chain brake.
Start the chainsaw: Start the chainsaw.
Release the chain brake: Release the chain brake.
Check the chain: Check to see if the chain stops immediately.
If the chain doesn’t stop, have the chainsaw repaired: If the chain doesn’t stop immediately, have the chainsaw repaired by a qualified mechanic.

29. Splitting Large Rounds: The Star Pattern

Splitting large rounds can be challenging, but the star pattern technique can make it easier. This involves splitting the round into multiple pieces, creating a star-like pattern.

Start with a clean round: Remove any dirt or debris from the round.
Split the round in half: Use a splitting axe or maul to split the round in half.
Split each half in half again: This will create four quarters.
Split each quarter into smaller pieces: Use a splitting axe or maul to split each quarter into smaller pieces.
Be careful: Splitting large rounds can be dangerous, so be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves.

30. Chainsaw Air Filter: Clean Regularly

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance and fuel efficiency. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can cause the engine to run poorly.

Remove the air filter: Remove the air filter from the chainsaw.
Clean the air filter: Clean the air filter with compressed air or soapy water.
Dry the air filter: Dry the air filter thoroughly before reinstalling it.
Reinstall the air filter: Reinstall the air filter in the chainsaw.
Clean the air filter regularly: Clean the air filter regularly to prevent it from becoming clogged.

31. Arborist Technique #1: Notch Placement for Controlled Felling

Arborists use precise notching techniques to control the direction and speed of a tree’s fall. This involves carefully planning the size and angle of the notch to ensure the tree falls exactly where intended, minimizing damage to surrounding structures and vegetation. I’ve seen arborists fell trees within inches of buildings using this technique.

32. Arborist Technique #2: Using Ropes and Pulleys for Lowering Limbs

When removing large limbs, arborists often use ropes and pulleys to lower them safely to the ground. This prevents the limbs from crashing down and causing damage or injury. This requires understanding load ratings and rigging techniques.

33. Arborist Technique #3: Assessing Tree Lean and Tension

Before felling a tree, arborists carefully assess its lean and tension to determine the safest way to cut it down. This involves looking for signs of stress, such as cracks or bends in the trunk. Experience in tree biomechanics is essential.

34. Arborist Technique #4: Utilizing Climbing Gear for Tree Access

Arborists use specialized climbing gear, including harnesses, ropes, and ascenders, to access trees safely and efficiently. This allows them to perform pruning and removal tasks at any height. Proper training in tree climbing techniques is crucial.

35. Arborist Technique #5: Stump Grinding for Complete Removal

After a tree is felled, arborists often use a stump grinder to remove the remaining stump. This eliminates the tripping hazard and allows for replanting or other landscaping. Stump grinding requires specialized equipment and safety precautions.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve learned these 35 wood processing tips, including 5 pro arborist techniques, it’s time to put them into practice. Start by gathering the necessary tools and safety gear. Then, choose a small project, such as splitting a small pile of firewood or pruning a few branches from a tree. As you gain experience, you can tackle more challenging projects. Remember to always prioritize safety and to take your time. With practice, you’ll become a skilled wood processor in no time. Good luck!