To air dry logs effectively, you need to stack them properly to promote airflow and prevent decay.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Preparation & Considerations:
- Space: Ensure you have a large, open area with good ventilation. This will help facilitate even drying.
- Wood Species: Different wood species dry at different rates. Hardwoods generally take longer than softwoods. Understanding your wood type will help you estimate drying time.
- Log Size: Thicker logs will take longer to dry than thinner logs. Consider splitting larger logs to speed up the process.
- Climate: Humidity and temperature play significant roles in air drying. Drier climates will result in faster drying.
2. Stacking the Logs:
- Elevate the Logs: The most crucial step is to keep the logs off the ground. This prevents moisture from wicking into the wood and promotes airflow underneath. Use supports like:
- Cribbing: Creating a base with scrap wood or concrete blocks.
- Sleepers: Using treated lumber as a foundation.
- Stacking Pattern: Choose a stacking pattern that allows for maximum air circulation. Common methods include:
- Criss-Cross Stacking: Logs are stacked in alternating directions, creating gaps for air to flow through.
- Stickering: Place "stickers" (thin, uniform pieces of wood) between each layer of logs. This creates consistent air gaps. Use dry wood for stickers to avoid introducing moisture. Stickers should be placed every 1-2 feet.
- Spacing: Leave adequate spacing between rows of stacks to further enhance airflow. A few feet is generally sufficient.
3. Promoting Drying:
- Remove the Bark (Optional): Removing the bark can speed up the drying process and reduce the risk of insect infestation. However, it also increases the risk of checking (cracking). Consider if this is the best approach for the species of wood you are drying.
- End Coating: Apply a commercial end-coating sealant or a latex paint to the ends of the logs. This slows down the drying process at the ends, which are prone to splitting and cracking.
- Sun Exposure: While some sunlight can aid drying, excessive sun exposure can cause uneven drying and warping. Partial shade or covering the stack can help prevent this.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the stacks. Open sides and gaps between rows are crucial.
4. Monitoring & Timing:
- Moisture Meter: The best way to determine when logs are adequately dry is to use a moisture meter. Target moisture content will depend on the intended use of the wood.
- Drying Time: Air drying can take several months to several years, depending on the factors mentioned above (species, size, climate, etc.). Check the moisture content regularly.
- Checking: Monitor the logs for checking (cracks). Minor checking is normal, but excessive checking can weaken the wood.
In summary, air drying logs requires proper stacking off the ground, good ventilation, and patience. Monitor moisture content and consider end-coating to minimize splitting.
