What should be done with a lumber piece that has a 5-inch section of wane along its edge?

When dealing with lumber that has a wane, which refers to the presence of bark or an absence of wood on the edge, it is crucial to address this defect appropriately to ensure the quality and usability of the material. Cutting the wane off is the correct action to take because it removes the compromised section of the wood, ensuring that the remaining lumber is consistent in quality and strength.

By cutting off the wane, you preserve the integrity of the lumber for its intended use, whether it be for structural elements, flooring, or other applications. Accepting the lumber as suitable or leaving it as is could lead to potential structural weaknesses or issues down the line, especially in applications where strength and stability are critical. Using it for flooring could be problematic, as the presence of wane may compromise the aesthetic and performance characteristics expected in flooring materials.

Therefore, cutting the wane off is the best practice to ensure that the lumber meets quality standards and is ready for effective use in construction or other projects.