Drying?

WoodChucker · February 27, 2004, 12:05:35 AM

When stacking lumber for air drying, does it matter if the boards are touching one another? I mean side by side, not on top of each other. I've always left about a half inch gap between the boards but I'm not sure if it's necessary or not. Does it make any difference on how it would dry or stain? Thanks!

R.T.

Captain · February 27, 2004, 03:01:24 AM

Hey Woodchucker,

I always try to leave a small air gap, probably 1/8 inch at a minimum. Saying that, on ***e I will occasionally stack it tight and have little problem with staining on the edge, as long as the air movement is sufficient.

Captain

Den Socling · February 27, 2004, 02:36:37 PM

I don't believe that there is any reason to keep a gap at the edge. I've never seen any of the 'big guys' do it.

WoodChucker · February 27, 2004, 07:44:39 PM

OK, thanks guys, appreciate the info!

R.T.

Tom · February 27, 2004, 07:47:31 PM

I weigh almost 300 lbs and leave a little crack between boards. ;D

WoodChucker · February 28, 2004, 09:22:27 AM

QuoteI weigh almost 300 lbs and leave a little crack between boards. ;D

, yeah maybe that's the problem then, because I weigh in at about 365. ;D

R.T.

Den Socling · February 28, 2004, 09:54:03 AM

I was going to let that crack past. :D

WoodChucker · February 28, 2004, 12:26:42 PM

QuoteI was going to let that crack past. :D

lol, yeah sometimes it's just to easy! ;D

R.T.

woodmills1 · February 29, 2004, 06:06:15 AM

All cracks aside. :D :D

I think there is supposed to be an inch or more left between the boards. It is my understanging that the air moves in a vertical way like a chimney more than horizontally.

Den Socling · February 29, 2004, 06:16:09 AM

I don't think there should be much chimney effect. A kiln charge should have baffles and fans that move between 100 and 600 CFM through the spaces provided by the stickers,.

oakiemac · February 29, 2004, 12:43:53 PM

I think there are a bunch of crack pots on this forum :D

If you have quarter sawn lumber, should you leave a space since q-sawn gives up its moisture on the edges rather than on the flat faces (or so I was told)???