Timber Drying Techniques: Air Drying vs Kiln Drying

Proper timber drying is essential for dimensional stability and preventing defects. Here is how the two main methods compare.

Air Drying

Process

Timber is stacked outdoors with stickers between layers to allow air circulation. Drying time: 1-2 years depending on thickness.

Advantages

• Lower cost
• No energy consumption
• Natural process

Disadvantages

• Very slow
• Weather dependent
• Cannot achieve low moisture content
• Requires large storage area

Kiln Drying

Process

Timber is placed in a controlled chamber where temperature and humidity are precisely regulated. Drying time: 2-8 weeks.

Advantages

• Fast and consistent
• Precise moisture control
• Kills insects and fungi
• Year-round operation

Disadvantages

• Higher energy cost
• Requires investment in equipment
• Risk of defects if not properly controlled

Moisture Content Targets

| Application | Target MC | |-------------|-----------| | Interior furniture | 8-10% | | Interior joinery | 10-12% | | Exterior joinery | 14-16% | | Construction | 16-18% |

Our Approach

We use computer-controlled kilns with species-specific drying schedules to achieve optimal results while minimizing defects.