In our first article, we considered the importance of discussing exact sizes with your Teak lumber dealer before you decide to make a purchase. We mentioned that it would be a good idea to speak to a couple of different suppliers to make sure you’re getting the best quality Teak for the job you’re planning to do. In this article, we’ll turn our attention to another important factor you’ll want to consider when it comes to working with Teak. That is the subject of kiln drying the lumber.
Find Out the Kiln Drying Standard to Which Your Teak Lumber has Been Dried
When it comes to kiln drying standards for Teak and other exotic lumber species, there is a clear difference between the United States and European standards. European standards of what is considered acceptable for kiln drying are between 12-15%. The standards that are acceptable here in the States tend to be much lower. Whether you’ll want to go with US standards or wetter European standards depends largely on what type of application you have in mind for your Teak lumber.
Precise Projects Often Require Kiln Dried Teak to be Re-Dried
When it comes to building yachts or completing interior home building projects, you’ll want to stick with the lower moisture levels of 6-8%. To achieve these levels, the wood will need to be re-dried, as most exotic hardwoods are typically initially kiln-dried to the higher European moisture level standards.
Less Precise Exterior Teak Projects Typically Don’t Require Re-Drying
If you’re using the Teak for siding on the outside of your home or to build a dock or deck, European standards of kiln drying are acceptable. Purchasing Teak that hasn’t been re-dried is actually preferable in these situations. Because the project should turn out just fine with 12-15% kiln-dried Teak, you would be wasting money if you purchased re-dried Teak for an exterior project. That extra drying will add more time and effort on the part of the lumber dealer, which will lead to a higher price tag for you as the consumer.
Find out from your lumber dealer in advance whether they sell European or United States moisture percentage standard kiln-dried Teak. If they usually sell the lower moisture percentage re-dried Teak, ask them if you could purchase the 12-15% kiln-dried Teak instead. This will lower their production hours and should take some dollars off the price for you.
Keep Communication as Clear as Possible With Your Teak Lumber Dealer
It’s vital for you to thoroughly explain to your Teak dealer the purpose you have planned for the Teak lumber you’re going to purchase. If you’re working with a knowledgeable dealer, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction on product selection based on where and how the lumber is going to be used. They’ll be able to give you an accurate quote depending on whether or not the use you have in mind will require the lumber to be re-dried.
As the market for Teak expands thanks to political changes in Myanmar, it’s a good idea to be prepared for the greater selection of this sought-after species that will be on the market. If you want to find the best materials for your next Teak project, learn all that you can about this desirable exotic hardwood.
