Pecan wood, derived from the species Carya illinoinensis, is a dense and valuable hardwood with a highly variable market price. The value of any given piece depends entirely on the wood’s intended use, its physical quality, and current regional demand. Understanding its dual market and specific grading factors determines whether a tree is worth a modest amount for firewood or a premium for fine lumber.
Market Classification and Primary Uses of Pecan Wood
Pecan wood is a versatile material supporting two distinct markets: high-end lumber and specialty cooking wood. Pecan ranks among the hardest domestic woods, registering a Janka hardness rating of approximately 1,820 pounds-force, making it an excellent choice for durable goods requiring both strength and aesthetic appeal.
The primary, high-value market utilizes pecan for furniture, custom cabinetry, decorative veneer, and hardwood flooring. Its attractive grain pattern and capacity for handling shock without splitting are major selling points. Pecan heartwood is reddish-brown, while the sapwood is creamy white, creating a strong and desirable color contrast in finished products.
The secondary market values pecan wood for smoking and general firewood due to its high thermal energy content. Pecan imparts a sweet, smoky flavor to meats, making it a favorite for barbecue enthusiasts. A full cord of pecan cooking wood can retail for prices up to $999, reflecting its density and desirable flavor profile.
Factors Determining Log and Lumber Quality and Value
The financial return from pecan timber is dictated by the log’s physical attributes, which determine its final lumber grade. Log diameter is a primary factor, as larger, longer logs yield more clear, usable lumber and are worth considerably more per unit volume. However, trees over 26 inches in diameter often develop internal defects like ring shake and rot, which can significantly downgrade the value of the butt log.
The presence of defects reduces the amount of defect-free wood that can be cut, directly impacting the grade. Knots, insect damage (such as bird peck), excessive sweep (crookedness), and internal mineral streaks lower the potential value. Logs intended for veneer must be straight, well-rounded, and nearly free of external surface irregularities.
Lumber value is also influenced by moisture content and color characteristics. Pecan is challenging to dry correctly, and professionally kiln-dried lumber (6.5% to 7.5% moisture content) is more stable and commands a higher price than green or air-dried material. While strong color contrast is often preferred for aesthetic applications, the highest-grade lumber requires a high percentage of clear-cut, unblemished sections.
Understanding Market Pricing Mechanisms and Units
The price of pecan wood is expressed differently depending on the product, requiring an understanding of specific industry units. For milled lumber, the standard unit is the Board Foot (BF), representing a piece of wood one inch thick, twelve inches wide, and twelve inches long. Retail prices generally range from $1.60 per BF for lower-quality common grades to over $7.00 per BF for select, wide, or figured material.
The most valuable lumber is designated as First and Seconds (FAS), which guarantees a minimum yield of clear-face cuttings. Lower grades like No. 1 and No. 2 Common are used where appearance is less important. Pricing is highly dependent on the board’s thickness and width, with wider boards often incurring a significant premium.
Pecan wood sold for smoking or heating is measured and priced by the Cord, a stack of wood measuring 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long (128 cubic feet). Smaller quantities are often sold as a face cord or fractional cord, with prices varying based on regional demand and seasoning. Standing timber, or Stumpage, is the price a landowner receives for the tree before it is cut, calculated as a lump sum estimate based on the anticipated yield.
Selling Options for Landowners and Maximizing Return
Landowners with pecan trees have three primary options for sale, each involving a trade-off between effort and final profit.
Selling Stumpage
The simplest option is selling the timber as standing trees, or stumpage, to a reputable timber buyer. This method provides the lowest return because the buyer assumes all the risk, labor, and costs associated with felling, processing, and transportation.
Selling Cut Logs
A higher return is achieved by felling the trees and selling them as cut logs, which requires the landowner to bear the cost and liability of harvesting and transport to a local mill. To maximize profit, logs must meet minimum specifications for diameter, length, and straightness to qualify for sawlog prices.
Selling Finished Lumber
The maximum potential profit comes from having the logs custom-milled into lumber, kiln-dried, and then selling the finished product directly to woodworkers or furniture makers. This option demands the greatest investment in time, processing costs, and finding retail buyers, but it captures the entire value chain. Landowners should obtain multiple appraisals from timber consultants to ensure the price reflects the true quality and volume of the pecan wood.