Log Weight Calculator
Calculate log weight by species and moisture
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Enter the log diameter in inches
- Enter the log length in feet
- Select the wood species (pine, oak, maple, cedar, or fir)
- Choose the moisture content level (green, air-dried, or kiln-dried)
- Click calculate to get estimated weight in pounds and tons
Understanding Log Weight
Log weight depends primarily on three factors: volume (determined by diameter and length), wood species density, and moisture content. Fresh-cut logs (green wood) contain significantly more water and weigh considerably more than dried wood.
Accurate log weight estimation is crucial for transportation planning, equipment selection, pricing, and ensuring safe handling operations in forestry and lumber industries.
Wood Density by Species
Different wood species have varying densities measured in pounds per cubic foot:
| Species | Green | Air-Dried | Kiln-Dried |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine | 50 lbs/ft³ | 35 lbs/ft³ | 28 lbs/ft³ |
| Oak | 68 lbs/ft³ | 47 lbs/ft³ | 43 lbs/ft³ |
| Maple | 62 lbs/ft³ | 44 lbs/ft³ | 40 lbs/ft³ |
| Cedar | 38 lbs/ft³ | 23 lbs/ft³ | 22 lbs/ft³ |
| Fir | 50 lbs/ft³ | 33 lbs/ft³ | 27 lbs/ft³ |
Impact of Moisture Content
- Green (Fresh Cut): 50-100% moisture content, heaviest weight
- Air Dried: 12-20% moisture content, moderate weight reduction
- Kiln Dried: 6-12% moisture content, lightest weight
Green logs can weigh 40-80% more than the same logs when kiln-dried. This significant difference affects transportation costs, handling requirements, and processing methods.
Practical Applications
- Transportation planning and load calculations
- Equipment selection for moving and handling logs
- Pricing and billing for log sales
- Mill capacity planning and scheduling
- Safety assessments for lifting and rigging operations
- Estimating drying time and storage requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
- How accurate is this log weight calculator?
- This calculator provides estimates based on average wood densities for common species. Actual weights can vary ±10-20% based on specific growth conditions, exact moisture content, wood age, and whether the log contains heartwood or sapwood. For critical applications, direct weighing is recommended.
- Why does moisture content affect log weight so much?
- Wood is hygroscopic and can absorb significant amounts of water. Green (fresh-cut) logs can have 50-100% moisture content by weight, meaning the water weighs as much or more than the wood itself. As logs dry, they lose water weight, resulting in substantial weight reduction.
- How do I measure log diameter correctly?
- Measure the diameter at the small end of the log (top) for the most conservative estimate. For irregular logs, measure at the widest and narrowest points and use the average. Always measure inside the bark for more accurate calculations.
- What's the difference between hardwood and softwood weight?
- Generally, hardwoods (oak, maple) are denser and heavier than softwoods (pine, fir, cedar) at the same moisture content. However, some softwoods like certain pine species can be quite heavy when green due to high sap content.
- How long does it take for logs to air dry?
- Air drying time varies by species, climate, and log size. As a rule of thumb, allow one year per inch of thickness for hardwoods and 6-12 months for softwoods. Proper stacking and air circulation significantly affect drying time.