Cant – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Wood and Lumber Glossary

What is Cant?

Cant is a term used in the lumber industry to refer to a log that has been partially sawn on one or more sides to create a flat surface. This process is typically done at a sawmill to prepare the log for further processing. Cant is essentially a partially processed log that is ready to be further cut into lumber or other wood products.

How is Cant Different from Lumber?

Cant differs from lumber in that it is not yet fully processed into the final product. Lumber refers to wood that has been cut and processed into standardized sizes and shapes for use in construction, furniture making, and other applications. Cant, on the other hand, is a rough-cut log that still needs to be further processed before it can be used in construction or other applications.

What are the Common Uses of Cant?

Cant is commonly used in the lumber industry to produce a variety of wood products. It can be further processed into lumber, beams, planks, boards, and other wood products used in construction, furniture making, and woodworking. Cant is also used in the production of pallets, crates, and other packaging materials. Additionally, cant can be used for landscaping, fencing, and other outdoor applications.

How is Cant Processed?

Cant is typically processed at a sawmill using a variety of cutting and milling equipment. The first step in processing cant is to remove the bark and any defects from the log. The log is then cut into smaller pieces, known as cants, using a saw or other cutting equipment. These cants are then further processed into lumber or other wood products using a variety of cutting, planing, and shaping equipment.

What are the Benefits of Using Cant?

There are several benefits to using cant in the lumber industry. One of the main benefits is that cant allows for more efficient use of the raw material. By partially processing the log into cants, sawmills can maximize the yield of usable lumber from each log. Cant also allows for greater flexibility in producing different sizes and shapes of lumber and other wood products. Additionally, using cant can help reduce waste and improve overall efficiency in the lumber production process.

How is Cant Measured and Sold?

Cant is typically measured and sold by volume or weight. The volume of cant is usually measured in board feet, which is a standard unit of measurement for lumber. One board foot is equal to a piece of lumber that is one foot long, one foot wide, and one inch thick. Cant can also be sold by weight, with the weight of the cant determined by weighing the log or cants on a scale. Cant is typically sold to lumber mills, woodworking shops, construction companies, and other businesses that use wood products in their operations.