How much is a cedar tree worth? Are cedar trees valuable, and if so, how tall do they need to be?
If you have a yard full of cedar trees, you may be wondering if they are worth any money. Since trees can be used by furniture makers, builders, and for firewood, it stands to reason that your cedar trees may be worth something. But knowing how much they are worth is the real question!
The short answer is that the value of your cedar trees is directly related to their size and age. A sapling will likely only earn you a few dollars, if you are lucky, but a mature tree can be worth thousands in some areas. Unfortunately, cedar is considered one of the “cheap” timbers, and it is often valued lower than some of the other varieties of wood at comparable sizes.
What is the Value of Cedar Trees
Cedar is graded by the mill and placed into two basic categories: clear or knotty. Clear grades are used when the appearance of the wood is important, and knotty grades are utilized in “rustic” projects or ones where the wood won’t be as visible. Clear grades are more valuable in most cases, but the grading system can vary from one mill to the next.
Remember, the value of anything depends on basic economics, supply and demand. If there is a small supply of cedar wood in your area, and a lot of people are looking to purchase it, then you will find your trees to be more valuable.
On the other hand, if everyone has a yard full of cedar and no buyers are calling, you likely won’t get very much for your trees.
One thing to keep in mind is that trends and consumer taste fluctuate. This means that even if the price is low in the current market, it may be higher at some future time—and vice versa! If prices are on the low end when you are looking to sell, It may behoove you to let your cedar trees mature and wait until the market is more favorable.
Selling Your Cedar Trees
If you are feeling confident in the market and are ready to sell your cedar, you may want to contact a local forester. The National Association of State Foresters should be able to help you find a county extension.
A local forester can guide you through the process by inspecting your trees, providing you an estimate on the worth of your cedar, and giving you tips on the possible buyers in your area. They’ll be able to tell you how much a cedar tree is worth. When you contact the forester to set up your appointment, let him or her know the number of trees you have on hand that you are willing to sell.
Once the forester arrives to look at your trees, you will want to walk them through your grove. The estimate that you are given will be determined by the health of your trees as well as their size and shape. For instance, curved trees will not be as valuable as straight trees.
After getting recommendations from the forester, you will want to research all those potential buyers. You can also call any local timber mills in your area and find out what they are currently paying for cedar. Don’t forget about independent buyers too such as local woodworkers, artisans, and craftspeople.
What is Cedar Wood Used For?
Cedar has a natural beauty, and it is often used in a way that showcases that fact. This means, it isn’t the type of wood that is typically used to frame a house or some other construction project where it will be covered with drywall, siding, and paint.
Cedar’s visual appeal makes it a sought after wood choice for projects like decking and fencing. It is even used as siding on houses or sheds, and it is also used on outdoor furniture because it has natural insect-repelling properties. People also use cedar for dressers and trunks for this reason as well.
Cedar is not only insect repellent, it is also decay resistant and moisture resistant which means it is a very durable wood choice. The combination of durability and beauty make it a favored wood for many craftspeople.
Cedar trees are beautiful and very popular, if you’re considering buying or selling cedars, you need to know “how much is a cedar tree worth”.
