Question
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Followup To
Question -
I am about to cut down several pine trees on my property. Other than paying to have them hauled away, I'd like to find something useful to do with them. What are my options? Thanks!
Answer -
Marilyn,

You are really testing me with this question.

How many is several?  I am not sure I can suggest anything that will not cost you.

You don't want to have these shredded to make mulch.  Pine bark makes a good mulch, but the pine wood would be a problem.  So scratch that off.

Depending on the diameter and number of trees you have, you could have lumber cut and have some really nice backyard furnature made.  In this way you can still have your trees in a much more useful form.

I hope this helps.

Gary
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Gary,

We are taking down 4 pine trees: 30", 24", 24" and 18" in diameter. So you answered one question about mulch - no. I know there is pine furniture you can buy, so that seems like a good idea. Will it work for outdoor furniture also? Can it be used for firewood? Most firewood I see for sale is oak - will pine work? Any other ideas for uses of this size pine tree?

Thanks for any assistance you can offer.

Marilyn

Answer
Marilyn,

The pine can be used as outdoor furniture as long you apply as preservative, wood protector, etc.  There are many choices besides wood arsenates.  A stain of paint color of your choice followed by a urethane finish is one way to go.  

You can used pine as firewood.  Pine is termed a softwood and is not as dense as oak.  It will burn hotter and faster than oak due to high resin content.  It does make a good choice for a fire pit in the backyard.  I would hesitate using in the fireplace or wood stove for home heating.  

Good luck.

Gary