The Importance of Kiln Drying for Log Homes.
Consistency and Durability
Kiln drying is a critical process for logs, ensuring they undergo a “pre-shrink” treatment before milling. This approach guarantees a uniform and robust wall system that minimizes settling and promotes tight joints. In many regions across the United States, our log wall system is recognized for its “non-settling” designation. With our extensive experience, we skillfully adapt our construction techniques to accommodate any minor wood variations.
Reduced Cracking
Controlled drying conditions play a vital role in reducing the likelihood of checks (cracks) that can occur during the kilning and construction processes. This meticulous approach ensures the structural integrity of your log home.
Precise Grading
Once the kiln drying is complete, trained inspectors carefully grade the logs to eliminate any defects. The logs selected for your home package meet the LogWall-40 standard in accordance with TPI regulations, ensuring quality and reliability.
Pest Control
The high temperatures reached during kiln drying effectively eliminate fungi responsible for wood decay, as well as any insects, their eggs, or larvae. This process contributes to the longevity and health of your log home.
Resin Prevention
Kiln drying causes most of the resin in the wood to crystallize, which prevents sap from surfacing after construction. This leads to cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing finishes.
Seamless, Long-lasting Finishes
Applying interior and exterior finishes can be done immediately after construction, providing efficient protection for your home. These finishes tend to penetrate deeper into the wood, enhancing durability over time.
Lighter Logs
The kiln drying process removes approximately 10,000 pounds of moisture from a typical home’s logs, resulting in significantly lighter materials. This reduction in weight facilitates easier handling during construction, allowing even the longest logs to be managed by just two individuals.