Quarter sawn lumber gets talked about like a universal upgrade. In reality, quarter sawn is a cutting technique that is useful in specific contexts. In old timber, it can deliver real benefits, but it is not automatically the best choice for every log or every use.
Plain sawn boards tend to maximize width and yield. Quarter sawn boards prioritize grain orientation and stability. That can reduce certain types of movement and produce a consistent appearance, but it often reduces width and increases handling complexity.
In very large logs, quarter sawing can make sense when stability is the priority and when the log condition supports it. In other cases, quarter sawing can unnecessarily limit practical yield, especially if internal stress or defects already constrain board size.
At Old Growth Mill, quarter sawn milling is applied selectively based on the material and the intended use. It is a decision, not a default.
The best approach is to treat quarter sawn as one option within a broader milling plan, chosen for clear reasons tied to performance.
Practical takeaway: quarter sawn is a method, not a magic word. Choose it for stability reasons tied to the project, not as a blanket rule.
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