Uses for Hollow Oak Logs
Practical, humorous, and fanciful ideas for making use of White Oak hollow logs. October 1, 2010
Question
I just cut down all my hollow white oak trees and cut them into 5/4 x 6 boards. But there is anywhere from 4' to 8' of the butt that is hollow on 6 trees. It seems a waste to just cut them into firewood. Any ideas for using these butts for anything but firewood? I thought about end tables or some type of furniture.
Forum Responses
(Sawing and Drying Forum)
From contributor R:
Around here they use them for drain pipes, like in a driveway.
From contributor G:
Drums.
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From contributor P:
Tip them on end in your campfire for roasting steak on a stick.
From contributor R:
If they are big hollow logs, build a tree house on top of the log with a ladder inside the log to get to the tree house.
From contributor M:
If it's like the western red cedar I saw, that could be clear wood. I don't know what clear oak sells for, but clear cedar is worth three times as much as the knotty stuff. It's a little extra work, but you can saw it into lumber if the shell is thick enough.
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From contributor D:
Good suggestions. A neighbor picked up one we had. It was full of dirt from varmints and the anthill inside of it. I didn't want to ruin chains sawing it into firewood. It was over 5-1/2' on one end, 4' on the other, and about 5' tall. He said he was going to make it into a planter. I guess I should stop in to see how it came out.
From contributor L:
I have seen large hollow logs cut into 8 to 16 inch lengths and used for cabin windows.
From contributor B:
I had a 40" bur oak that was hollow on the bottom 8'. I cut 2' long sections like firewood and set them on end, filled with dirt, and the wife plants flowers and ivy in them. She loves them and when I make her happy - that is a good thing.
From contributor O:
Saw one in half, place a nice slab on top and use it for a bathroom sink/vanity.
AI enhanced answer (added Jan 17, 2025):Hollow oak logs have a variety of practical and decorative uses:
1.
Beehives: Oak logs are traditionally used for natural beekeeping. The hollow interior provides a perfect environment for bees, promoting natural comb building.
2.
Garden Planters: Their natural durability makes them excellent for outdoor use. Hollowed out, they can serve as unique planters for flowers, herbs, or small shrubs, adding rustic charm to gardens.
3.
Furniture: With some craftsmanship, these logs can be transformed into tables, benches, or even chairs. The hollow can be used for storage or as a design feature.
4.
Decorative Elements: Sections of hollow oak logs can be used as decorative pieces in homes or gardens, perhaps as vases, candle holders, or simply as natural art.
5.
Animal Habitats: In wildlife conservation, hollow logs can be placed in natural settings to provide shelter for small animals like squirrels, birds, or even reptiles.
6.
Water Features: They can be incorporated into garden water features, where water flows through or over the log, creating a naturalistic fountain or pond element.
7.
Storage: For outdoor storage, these logs can be used to store garden tools or as rustic storage containers for firewood.
8.
Craft Projects: Smaller sections can be used for DIY projects like making bowls, cups, or even musical instruments like drums.
Each use leverages the natural beauty and durability of oak, making hollow logs not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing in various settings.
