Introduction
Wood preserving is an essential service for contractors looking to extend the life and durability of timber structures and components. Whether for on-site milling or specialized chemical treatments, understanding the associated costs is crucial for accurate job pricing and competitive bidding. Most commercial wood preserving projects in the United States typically range from $0.75 to $7.5 per board foot.
While the typical range provides a good benchmark for common services, the full envelope of costs for wood preserving can also fall within the $0.75–$7.5 range per board foot, encompassing everything from basic milling to advanced preservation techniques and even material and installation for specialized timbers. This guide will break down the various factors influencing these costs, helping contractors better estimate and bid on wood preservation jobs.
Cost Comparison
| Tier | Price Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $0.75–$0.9 | Basic on-site milling per board foot for common wood types. |
| Mid-range | $0.9–$2.5 | Specialized on-site milling, such as quarter sawing, or basic chemical treatment per board foot. |
| Premium | $2.5–$7.5 | More extensive or specialized wood treatment methods, potentially including materials and installation for timbers. |
Labor Costs
| Service | Typical Cost (per board foot) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic On-site Milling | $0.75–$0.9 | For common wood types. |
| Quarter Sawing (on-site milling) | $0.9 | This specialized milling technique can cost more than basic milling. |
| Chemical Treatment Application | $0.9–$2.5 | Varies based on the type of treatment and application method. |
| Timber Installation | Up to $7.5 | This premium service includes both materials and labor. |
| Logging Costs | $0.15–$0.3 per board foot | For timber harvesting, based on a range from $150 to $300+ per thousand board feet. |
Key Cost Factors
- Type of Wood and Treatment: The specific wood species and the chosen preservation method significantly impact the cost. Basic treatments for common woods are less expensive than specialized treatments for valuable or hard-to-treat timbers.
- On-site vs. Off-site Processing: On-site milling can be cost-effective for larger jobs and can range from $0.75 to $0.9 per board foot for basic services, while specialized techniques like quarter sawing might increase this to $0.9 per board foot. Off-site processing often includes transportation costs.
- Volume of Wood: Larger volumes usually qualify for lower per-unit costs. The economy of scale applies greatly to both milling and treatment processes.
- Level of Customization: Highly customized cuts or treatments, such as those required for historical restoration or unique architectural features, will incur higher costs. For instance, the annual charge on timbers with a 14-year life can be around $7.50 per set in place.
- Geographic Location: Regional differences in labor rates, material availability, and environmental regulations can influence pricing. Areas with higher costs of living or stricter environmental controls may see higher preservation costs.
- Market Fluctuations: Producer Price Index data shows that prices for wood preservation can fluctuate. For instance, the US Producer Price Index for Wood Preservation was at 269.35, experiencing slight changes from previous periods.
Regional Pricing
| Region | Price Range (per board foot) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast US | $0.85–$7.0 | Higher labor costs and regulations may push prices towards the higher end, especially for premium services. |
| Southeast US | $00.75–$6.5 | Often more competitive for basic services due to timber availability and potentially lower labor costs. |
| Midwest US | $00.75–$6.0 | Generally competitive across all tiers, with regional variations based on local demand and supply. |
| Western US | $00.80–$7.5 | Can see higher prices for premium services due to specialized treatments for specific wood types and higher logistical costs in some areas. |
Tips for Pricing Jobs
- Obtain Detailed Specifications: Clearly understand the client's needs regarding wood type, desired treatment, and final application. This will help you select the most appropriate and cost-effective preservation method.
- Factor in On-site Logistics: Account for transportation of equipment, setup time for on-site milling (which can cost $0.75 per BF for basic, or $0.90 for quarter sawing), and any unique site challenges that might add to labor or operational costs.
- Monitor Material Costs: Stay informed about current lumber and wood product price trends. The Producer Price Index for Lumber and Wood Products provides insights into market fluctuations, which can impact your material sourcing and overall job cost.
- Consider Long-Term Value: Emphasize the long-term benefits of wood preservation to your clients, such as extended material life, reduced maintenance, and increased durability, which can justify higher initial costs for premium treatments that can extend life to 14 years or more.
