Wood seasoning involves two types of moisture: free moisture and bound moisture. Free moisture is the water that exists in the wood's cells and can be removed relatively easily during the initial drying phase. Bound moisture, on the other hand, is water that is chemically bound within the wood fibers and requires more intensive drying methods, such as kiln drying, to eliminate during the final seasoning stage. Properly seasoning wood reduces its moisture content, enhancing its stability and durability for various applications.
Seasoning of wood is removed of water and moisture in wood
Wood seasoning or drying reduces the moisture content of wood. If the wood is dried to quickly it will shrink at the surface and compress the damp interior.
The two types of seasonings in wood are air seasoning and kiln seasoning. Air seasoning involves drying wood naturally by stacking it in a way that allows air circulation, which can take several months. Kiln seasoning, on the other hand, uses controlled heat and humidity in a kiln to speed up the drying process, typically reducing the time to a few days or weeks. Both methods aim to reduce the moisture content in wood, enhancing its stability and durability for various applications.
Stage 1 - steam is ejected into wood at a low temperature to force moisture out. Stage 2 - steam is reduced and temperature is increased to dry the wood. Stage 3 - then there is a flow of hot almost dry air
Seasoning of timber is the drying of timbers moisture content to a level below 22% by several methods, including Air seasoning, kiln seasoning or a combined of both. Seasoning of timber allows wood to be used for practical purposes whether it be for shaping, constructional purposes, what ever the need for timber, it must be seasoned.
Kiln seasoning is the most effective commercial process for drying wood. It accelerates the moisture-removal process through the use of external energy.
Natural wood seasoning helps to reduce the moisture content in the wood, which improves its strength, durability, and resistance to decay. It also reduces the risk of warping, splitting, and cracking in the wood, resulting in a more stable and long-lasting material for various applications. Additionally, seasoned wood is lighter and easier to work with compared to freshly cut or unseasoned wood.
Seasoning natural wood is necessary to reduce its moisture content, which helps prevent issues such as warping, cracking, and splitting during and after the drying process. Proper seasoning also improves the wood's strength, stability, and resistance to pests and decay. Additionally, well-seasoned wood ensures better adhesion for finishes and adhesives, leading to a more durable final product. Overall, seasoning enhances the wood's performance and longevity in various applications.
Less smoke and less chance of the wood popping a hot amber on your floor. Unseasoned "green" wood is also hard to start vs seasoned wood witch often times can be lit with just a match. Hope this helps.
Some common defects that can occur during wood seasoning include warping, checking (cracks on the surface), splitting, and blue stain (fungal discoloration). These defects can affect the quality and usability of the wood for certain applications. Proper drying techniques and conditions can help minimize these defects.
Seasoning
wood absorbs moisture better