Aging Wood

[BonaireBBQ]

So for those that cut their own wood how long do you "age it - let it dry" before using it I have a lot of Mesquite and Acacia in my south forty that needs to be trimmed. Our average humidity is 78% year round.

 

[SuperDave]

Walt, a little depends on how you store it.  I cut a large Rubbermaid storage container worth of chunks and can start using it within a month or 2.  Left in large limbs and logs and you can let them season out. 

 

[Meatball]

BonaireBBQ... you may want to invest in a moisture meter ...well worth it. Takes the guess work out of moisture readings for wood. 

 

[JustChillin]

I cut a couple of limbs from a maple tree yesterday. Can you store small chunks in zip lock bags? Thinking of letting the larger sections cure on their own.

 

[SuperDave]

I cut a couple of limbs from a maple tree yesterday. Can you store small chunks in zip lock bags? Thinking of letting the larger sections cure on their own.

If it doesn't breathe initially it may get some mold depending on how wet it was.

 

[JustChillin]

Thanks for the confirmation. That was my concern. I have it sitting in a bucket curing for a while.

 

[curegeorg]

2nd the moisture meter.  I got one for "work" that sits with my wood selection.  Mine is the type used for checking construction materials, but it digs into my hobby also!  I'd split it, leave it in a cool dry place and check it periodically.  When you think it's close, I'd split it more and check some other spots.