The important difference between air-dried and kiln-dried lumber

Freshly cut timber, also known as green wood, contains a high amount of moisture, typically between 30% to 50% water content. If not dried properly, the wood can undergo significant changes in shape, size, and density, leading to warping, cracking, and decay. Seasoning timber reduces the moisture content to between 15% to 20%, making it more stable and less prone to deformation. This process also helps to:

In a world of next-day delivery and instant gratification, the timber stack is a quiet rebellion. Deep in the yard at [Local Sawmill Name], rows of maple sleep under corrugated tin. They aren't dead; they are resting. While modern industry demands the heat of the kiln to dry wood in days, a small group of purists insists that the only way to respect the tree is to let the wind do the work.

Seasoning timber can be done through air seasoning or kiln drying. Here, we will focus on air seasoning, a traditional and cost-effective method.

❌ Stacking wood directly on the ground ❌ No end-grain sealing → severe splitting ❌ Drying in full sun without cover → surface cracking ❌ Using wet stickers → stains and mold