Drying Rough Sawn Timber

Stacking Rough Sawn Timbers

Stacking rough sawn timbers or rough cut timbers out in the open is the industry preferred method of removing moisture from the log. Using an enclosed space such as a shed or garage with little or no air circulation simply inhibits the drying process. Needless to say, the bulkier the timber the longer it takes to dry, but the method is the same. Here in the UK trees are felled and left to air dry for two to four years before being sawn.

Drying Rough Sawn Timbers

To dry rough sawn timber (a.k.a. rough sawn lumber) properly, stack the material on at least 50mm stickers, allowing plenty of air space between each stack. Position the stacks to enable the prevailing wind to flow through the long lengths of the stack. Cover with a plastic tarpaulin to keep any rainwater out. Do not allow the tarpaulin to block the air flowing horizontally through the stacks themselves. In a dry climate, logs should be dry within six months, however in a damp and wet environment, such as in Cornwall rough sawn timber can take upto four years to dry large bulk timbers.

Kiln Dried Rough Sawn Timber

If you need to dry your timber quickly, say in two to four days try using a radio frequency (RF) vacuum kiln. Better still try and source your timber already air dried or even kiln dried, where possible. Simply ask the question of your timber supplier. Once your rough sawn timber is dry you then cut to it size and pressure treat. Nonetheless, it is much easier and quicker to purchase, say a few treated 6 x 6 timbers than it is to dry and process the rough sawn timbers yourself.

Want To Know Where To Get Good Quality Rough Sawn Timber?

Talk to Gillsons Timber a company you can trust.

Their experience and professionalism is second to none.

Drying Rough Sawn Timber

Stacking Rough Sawn Timbers