Air drying is a crucial initial step for effectively drying live edge wood, often followed by kiln drying.
Air Drying Live Edge Wood
Air drying reduces the moisture content gradually, minimizing the risk of cracking and warping. Here's how:
- Stacking: Stack the live edge slabs on stickers (spacers) to allow air circulation.
- Location: Choose a shaded, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and rain.
- Sticker Placement: Stickers should be placed every 12-18 inches and aligned vertically to prevent sagging. Use dry wood for stickers to avoid staining the slabs.
- End Sealing: Apply a commercial end sealer to the ends of the slabs to prevent rapid moisture loss, which can lead to cracking.
- Weighting: Place weights on top of the stack to help prevent warping.
- Drying Time: Air drying can take a considerable amount of time, typically months to years, depending on the wood species, thickness, and climate. As a general guideline, allow one year of air drying per inch of thickness. For example, Lancaster Live Edge air dries their slabs for about 2 years after cutting.
Kiln Drying Live Edge Wood
After air drying, kiln drying can further reduce moisture content to a level suitable for interior use. This process involves carefully controlling temperature and humidity to prevent damage.
- Purpose: Kiln drying ensures the wood is stable and less prone to movement in a climate-controlled environment.
- Process: Kiln drying involves placing the wood in a specialized oven (kiln) where heat and humidity are precisely controlled.
- Professional Help: Kiln drying is often best left to professionals with the proper equipment and expertise to avoid damaging the wood.
In summary, properly drying live edge wood involves a combination of air drying for an extended period, followed by kiln drying to achieve the desired moisture content. This process minimizes warping and cracking, ensuring the wood is stable and ready for use.
