Heat Cycle for Slabs - Only Option?

[Johnnybar]

Are most of you fellas using a heat cycle on the lumber and slabs before the projects begin or are there other options these days? I saw one guy use a salt/boric acid mixture rolled on the wet slabs but, I'm not sure if that replaces the heat cycle.

 

[ChoppyChoppy]

We mostly just air dry lumber. The kiln is very expensive to run.

 

[JohnWayne]

I spray all pieces with a product called "Timbor" and air dry.


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[Johnnybar]

I spray all pieces with a product called "Timbor" and air dry.


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I've heard of that product before. I believe it is a boron containing product similar to borax but a little different chemical makeup.

 

[Philip Addison]

We also mostly just air dry lumber.

 

[Bmac]

Use boracare spray, a borate containing liquid, wood needs to be kept out of the elements or the boracare washes away.

Boracare and Timbor are not great at killing existing bugs/larvae but will prevent new ones from infesting. Boracare absorbs a little more deeply in the wood than timbor but it is more expensive. I spray right after I mill, hoping to form a protective coating. So you are right, the spray does not take the place of a heat cycle. The heat cycle is 100% effective, but you can get your wood reinfested after the heat cycle.

I find not all species of wood is that vulnerable to borers. The heartwood of cherry and walnut doesn't seem to be a problem, while oak maple and hickory is very vulnerable. Also most borers live in the bark/sapwood area and need higher moisture contents to thrive.