Why do certain log homebuilders kiln dry their logs?
For two reasons: 1) Many log home builders kiln dry because they utilize standing dead or low grade wood. Standing dead wood is material cut from dead trees that have been killed by woodborers and other insects. The kiln drying process attempts to kill these insects prior to using the wood for house construction. This lumber is very inexpensive to purchase. True North uses only live trees with no insect infestation. 2) Many log homebuilders kiln dry in an attempt to reduce the moisture content of the logs in an effort to eliminate settlement and shrinkage. The kiln drying process will not adequately eliminate shrinkage, as it is impossible to dry out the center of the log. Usually a kiln only dries the first outside one inch of lumber. Therefore, the log homeowner has wasted his money on kiln drying because once the log comes out of the kiln; the process is reversed due to the absorption of environmental humidity. The space allowed for settlement over windows and doors is evidence that
