Advantages of Kiln-Dried Wood for Durable Structures

Advantages of Kiln-Dried Wood for Durable Structures

27th Jul 2023

From building outbuildings to cladding homes and setting the perfect ambience, kiln-dried wood is a highly dependable and versatile material that’s in huge demand. Through a controlled drying process, kiln drying reduces the moisture content of the wood to a specific level suitable for its intended use.

By carefully controlling the drying conditions, the wood can be dried more efficiently and consistently compared to traditional air-drying methods, where the wood can be left exposed to natural air and environmental conditions. This controlled drying process sets the foundation for many advantages.

Enhanced Stability and Resistance

One of the most significant advantages of kiln-dried wood is its improved stability. By carefully reducing the moisture content, kiln-drying prevents the wood from warping, twisting, or developing small cracks over time. This characteristic is especially favourable when considering wood for furniture or cladding, as it ensures the structure maintains its shape and integrity even in varying and often harsh environmental conditions.

Improved Durability

Kiln-drying removes as much as 90 per cent of the moisture content from the wood. This drastic reduction in moisture makes the wood significantly more durable, increasing its resistance to fungal decay and wood-boring insects. The lower moisture content creates an environment unsuitable for the growth of fungi and prevents insects, larvae, eggs, bugs, and mould from thriving within the wood.

Consistent Quality

As we’ve touched on, the controlled environment of the kiln ensures that the wood is dried uniformly. This consistency makes it easier to grade and work with. For cladding applications, this means a more uniform appearance, while for furniture, it translates to ease of crafting and assembly.

Reduced Weight and Transportation Fees

As kiln-dried wood has a lower moisture content, it weighs less than air-dried wood. This reduction in weight can lead to cost savings in transportation, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, the lighter weight will make lifting and handling slightly easier during construction or installation, saving time and effort.

Faster Project Completion

It depends on the complexity of your project, but the efficient and controlled drying process of kilns significantly reduces the waiting time for the wood to dry, which can take several months naturally. As a result, projects that use kiln-dried wood can be completed faster, minimising construction delays and improving overall project timelines.

Conclusion

Kiln-dried wood is an exceptional choice for creating durable structures, whether it's for furniture or cladding applications. Its stable and robust nature, coupled with its resistance to decay, insects, and warping, ensures that the final products stand the test of time. By opting for kiln-dried wood, builders, craftsmen, and homeowners can enjoy the advantages of a reliable and long-lasting material for their projects. So, next time you consider using wood for any structural application, think of the numerous benefits that kiln-dried wood has to offer. To learn more about us and our kiln-dried cladding and firewood, or kiln dried oak - please contact our friendly team today.