raakapuuta

Raakapuu, or raakapuuta in Finnish, refers to raw timber that has been felled and cut to length but has not undergone drying or further processing. It includes roundwood such as logs and bolts delivered to mills, as well as unprocessed wood intended for energy use or for later conversion into finished products. Raakapuu is typically stored in piles and may still carry bark. Its moisture content is high and varies with species and season, contributing to variability in density and weight.

Because raakapuu has not been dried, it is prone to shrinkage, warping, checks, and fungal growth if not stored and handled properly. This requires careful moisture management, stacking, and protection from the elements during storage and transport. The quality and usability of raakapuu depend on straightness, diameter, defect presence, and the intended downstream process.

Common uses of raakapuu include feedstock for sawmills, veneer, and pulping operations, as well as energy wood. It is also traded on the roundwood market and can be bundled or delivered in logs of various lengths. In many forestry systems, raakapuu represents the initial stage of the value chain, with further processing—sawing, drying, and grading—adding value downstream.

Environmental and economic aspects emphasize sustainable harvesting and regeneration. Properly managed raakapuu procurement supports timber production while maintaining forests’ ecological balance, ensuring that harvest cycles meet regulatory requirements and long-term forest health.