Just how much does cutting oaks in early/late winter measurably hasten drying time as opposed to a spring/ summer cutting ? I assume as the tree goes into winter dormancy and nutrient uptake stops, there is less sap and moisture in the outer layers, therefore taking less time to season, but by how much ?
Here are some readings I just took from a red oak cut a few weeks ago in early December. Readings are from outer sapwood (24%) and one from inner heartwood (19.9%). Both readings, if accurate, seem low for a green tree.
I just split a medium size split to get an accurate reading. Maybe my new meter is being too kind or is there a significant difference in moisture content in these oaks from season to season ? Would the readings be much different if I cut in the summer ?
I'm rejoining the wood burning life after a 10 year break from it all. I sure would like to join the ranks of you fully seasoned wood guys and 2 years seems a long way off. If I can shave off 6 months, it's worth cutting some of my oaks before spring.
Thanks !
Here are some readings I just took from a red oak cut a few weeks ago in early December. Readings are from outer sapwood (24%) and one from inner heartwood (19.9%). Both readings, if accurate, seem low for a green tree.
I just split a medium size split to get an accurate reading. Maybe my new meter is being too kind or is there a significant difference in moisture content in these oaks from season to season ? Would the readings be much different if I cut in the summer ?
I'm rejoining the wood burning life after a 10 year break from it all. I sure would like to join the ranks of you fully seasoned wood guys and 2 years seems a long way off. If I can shave off 6 months, it's worth cutting some of my oaks before spring.
Thanks !