Factoring Yield

How far will your log go?

Let’s say you have a project that requires—when you add up all the net square footage—about 5,000 square feet of veneer.  Quick! How much should you plan on purchasing?

A simple rule of thumb says you should multiply your net square footage times three. That means for a 5,000 square foot project, you should sample about 15,000 square feet of veneer. This rule isn’t exact, but definitely helpful.

Sound daunting? It’s really not. You don’t have to look at all 15,000 square feet to know what you have. Typically, we’ll pull a selection of veneer leaves from various sections of the log, being sure to get a good representation of what is in it. These sample selections offer a good idea of how the grain, color, and figure appear throughout the flitch.

Equally important to volume is considering these factors:

• Length: Are the leaves long enough?
• Width: What will each flitch yield in width?
• Gross square footage of each flitch: Is the total yield 3 times your net yield?
• Color and grain compatibility: While it’s difficult to exactly match color and grain from flitch to flitch, you should be able to select a range of color and grain that will enhance your project.

The goal is to select flitches that satisfy your aesthetic needs, while meeting the size and volume needs of the project—without coming up short or paying for more than you need.

Although the 3 to 1 yield rule is helpful, it isn’t exact. Working with the experts from Dooge Veneers and working with as much information as possible during our collaboration on the project, we may be able to assist with finding a more exact yield. If you’re unsure, just talk to us. We can review your prints, factor the appropriate yields, and then show you ONLY those flitches that meet your dimensional needs. Don’t go it alone, give us a call. We’re happy to help.