FHC should take up a collection and build an assorted load for Dave....we could have a bush pilot air-drop it in.Oh to have a bunch of wood choices.
I separate spruce & birch, & season spruce 1 year & birch 3 years.
Ya but they sure smell nice though don't they
Leave em out there they will dry. Jay
I can't tell you why but can tell you from trying pieces the last few years that haven't had that drying time vs ones that had the drying time there is a huge difference. The pieces that had time to dry lit up easier and put out less creosote on the glass.
I know, it does make a huge difference. Wish there were some tests to see which way is most effective. Whether to cover or leave uncovered. Is it sun, wind or a combination of sun, wind rain, freezing and so forth.
That's what I'm planning on this year. Might cover while the leaves are dropping, and then uncover till winter.
Having limited space to store wood is one problem I have as well. I have land that has slopes where it is impossible to stack. The edges of the property are best for single row stacks as border walls. The issue is that they are in the shadiest part of the property. It will take longer to dry there. Still trying to work out a plan to get three full years ahead. I'm sure I will eventually get there.
Augie, I'd be interested in how well that kiln seasoned oak burns. I read some articles on solar kilns done small scale don't really work that well. They have to be large enough to really generate enough heat to be effective. I may be wrong, so I'm curious to see if you are getting that 20% reading in a fresh resplit, but I heard there are issues with mold and excess humidity inside the kiln.
That then takes the pressure off, Dennis. I accept your expert advice and will forego the top cover until winter. On my deck I keep a steel holder that holds a single row 4'x4'. I covered it with a corrugated plastic cover in the winter. Did not really cover most of the stacked wood unless it was going to be rain and not snow.
Dennis, slow and steady wins the race. Don't push yourself if you can't keep up the same pace as before. I'm sure a much needed respite is in order. You've probably gotten far enough ahead where taking it easier might still be okay. Next year you can get all fired up and stay at it. Be well, my friend.
You've still got me beat by a mile. That would plum wear me out in one day. My arthritis won't let me do the things I used to once do, so I have come to terms by allowing myself limits. Yes, I can push the envelope sometimes, but I've gotten to where it is better to slow down rather than hurt myself. I don't do ladders very well anymore either. 2 spills from low height was enough to keep me off most times now. Had the gutters covered with screens this year when I had them replaced. Little things here and there to make it easier, helps.
