drying elm and pine

[rjb]

ok new to milling and vary new to csm i look around on the sight but did not find what i was looking for so hopefuly you guys can help or point me to the right thread. so i got a timberjig today cut up some elm that was wet (throwing sap/water wet). i would like to leave the bark on to make a end table how long do i need to let it dry? outside/inside garage non heated out side temp is 20 degrees right now? and when can i start working on it and polyurithan it. also the same questions about the pine the elm that i cut is 3' x19''x 4.25'' and do you use polyurithan or something diffrant thanks for the help

 

[qbilder]

Wait at least a year, preferably longer. I have been told 1 year for every inch of thickness. Be sure you keep it stickered with good air flow and out of direct sun. Polyurethane should be fine. If it's outside use spar urethane.

 

[Dave Boyt]

Those are some pretty thick slabs. First, I'd get some end sealer on them to help keep the ends from cracking. It would help if you can get a couple of fans to circulate air through the stack, since air movement in a garage will probably be limited. Here is a photo of some cedar stacked and stickered.
View attachment 290845

The stickers are 1" square (you could get by with 3/4") to allow movement of air between the slabs. At 1 year per inch, they should be ready around July, 2017. As an alternative, you could research ways to work with it green. There are some construction techniques that allow for the movement of the wood as it dries. Be sure to treat it for insects, especially if you leave the bark on. A powderpost beetle infestation is no fun.

 

[rjb]

thanks for responding couple more questions what do you use for end seal and how do you treat for the powederpost beetles

 

[Dave Boyt]

I use anchorseal to end seal the boards (I like to end seal the whole log when it has first been cut). You can get it in 5 gal containers from U.C. Coatings. The next best thing is latex paint (any color). Here's a link to powderpost beetle info. I used Boracare, and it did the job, though it is pretty expensive. Worst case scenario is that you sell a piece of furniture and the beetles infest someone else's home.

 

[qbilder]

Worst case scenario is that you sell a piece of furniture and the beetles infest someone else's home.

Blame it on the dog. They came in on the dog.