Ideas to reduce checking in log railings/furniture

[jaythecelt]

About three years ago I built a railing using 10" dia x 4ft sassafras logs for posts.  The logs were air dried for only about 6 months, so I expected checks.   But the checking on one of the posts it is so severe it is splitting in half and will have to be replaced.  I have a replacement post that has been air drying for about 18 months - so far no checks.

I like the idea of using logs for railings and furniture, but don't want to have to wait 2 years for the logs to air dry.  Is there anyway, besides careful air or kiln drying, to reduce checking?  Would boring a large diameter hole through the center of the post relieve some internal stresses - or would it make the checking worse?

[breederman]

Welcome to the forestry forum I don't think you can do to much about the splitting,They add "rustic charm"  I have a six inch pine post in my family room that you can stick your finger in from top to bottom, it still holds the upstairs up just fine. I like it. :P

[CampD]

I build some log furniture and have done stair railings. What I find that works bests is to seal the ends as soon as I cut them to size (I keep a little paint pot with me) at least 2 coats of log sealer. Your going to get some checking, especially on the larger dia pieces. On those I force clear chaulking in as soon as I notice the crack starting. Takes some vigilance, but its worth it.

[jander3]

Time seems to work best.  I have piles of poles that have been cut and are drying for future projects.  When I need something I dig into a pile that is two years old.   Some may have checks, but at that point they are a couple of years old and I don't have to deal with shrinking in joints.   

Never had much luck with recently cut stuff.

[jaythecelt]

Thanks for the info!