Unseasoned timber is essentially "wet" wood, making it heavy, prone to decay, and structurally unstable. The primary goals of seasoning include:
| Defect | Cause | Appearance | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Too rapid surface drying | Small cracks on surface | | End checks / splits | Moisture escaping too fast from ends | Deep cracks at log ends | | Warping (bow, twist, cup) | Uneven shrinkage or poor stacking | Distorted shape | | Casehardening | Surface set in tension (kiln drying) | Internal stresses, warping when recut | | Collapse | Severe internal stresses (high temp drying) | Corrugated or wrinkled surface | what is seasoning of timber
Timber is stacked in open air, allowing atmospheric air to circulate and carry away moisture. Unseasoned timber is essentially "wet" wood, making it
| Benefit | Explanation | | :--- | :--- | | | Wood will not shrink, swell, or crack after installation | | Increased strength | Modulus of rupture and stiffness increase significantly | | Decay resistance | Below 20% MC, fungal growth stops | | Better finishing | Paints, varnishes, and adhesives adhere properly | | Lighter weight | Easier handling and lower freight costs | | Improved thermal/electrical insulation | Dry wood is a better insulator | Unseasoned timber is essentially "wet" wood