Article by: Leon Botes, Operations Manager
Standing out with product presentation
At Stirling Machinery, we have more and more customers seeking a solution for set length feedstock for decking and cladding applications. Sawmills and wholesalers are looking to gain an edge over their competitors that are supplying a similar product in the same market. The best way to stand out is through the presentation of the product they offer.
To achieve this, a Finger Jointer is an answer. Short feedstock can be finger-jointed into longer lengths and bowed boards can be cut down and finger jointed into straight boards. That means more sellable boards out of your logs, increasing recovery in your dry mill.
Maximising your return on decking and cladding products
By supplying set length instead of random length decking or cladding to your wholesalers, they can control their stock better by selling per length instead of per metre. As a result, your wholesaler is not left with shorts on their shelves that may or may not sell.
Achieving higher value products
Most sawmills have a fixed recovery of 30-35% from a hardwood log. Therefore, there are only two ways you can increase profits; one is by producing a more valuable product from your feedstock and the other is by increasing the selling price. By introducing set length boards to your offering, you can potentially achieve both.
Better results for the end-user
There are also advantages for the contractor who is installing the product. Interestingly, contractors tend to believe that buying cheaper random length products is better for their bottom line, but the opposite is true. By using set length stock, there is less wastage, fewer butt joints, quicker installation and fewer tradies are required on site. For the consumer, the advantage is they receive a better-looking end result.
Finger Jointers make it happen
The investment in a Finger Jointer will create fresh possibilities for your business. Being able to produce set length boards will reduce waste, optimise operations and set your offerings apart from competitors. Consider educating your customer base about the benefits of set length versus random length boards, as described above (less waste, less labour, better finish) so that you can position your product as a more premium one.
If this is something you would like to explore further for your business, contact the Stirling Machinery team today for a tailored solution that will fit with your current production and integrate with your existing machinery.
View our range of Finger Jointers to learn more.
