How to Dry Cherry Lumber
Cherry lumber has long been a favorite of those who work with wood. Its beauty and strength make it some of the most sought after wood on the market. However, no wood is of any value unless it has been dried. Many consumers do not realize that this is a process that they can do themselves.
Most cherry wood that is in a lumber yard has been kiln-dried. This process does not always bring the best results. Some prefer wood that has been air-dried. It can be a simple, but time-consuming process.
- Build a foundation of cinder blocks or overturned plastic buckets at least a foot off the ground. For wood to dry, it must have air circulation to allow proper evaporation.
- Stack the wood in a pile on top of the foundation that you have laid. After each board, add several inch-thick wooden disks, called spacers, before adding another board. This will allow air flow between all parts of each board.
- Stack the boards to a comfortable and safe height. Bind the wood around in several places with rope or stretching cords. This will keep the boards from shifting.
- Place a piece of tarp (preferably not clear) on top of the stack. This will provide roofing for the stack of lumber. Just like the roof of a house, it will keep direct sunlight and rain out. Make sure that there is space for evaporated water to escape. If not, the boards will remain moist.
- Place cider blocks on top of your makeshift roof. This will keep the tarp from shifting and the boards from warping as they dry.
- Check your boards periodically. The drying process varies, but can take up to a year.