Aging Timber: 5 Reasons Why We Do It

The Beauty of Patience

Step 1: Responsibly Harvested Timber

Our journey begins with the careful selection of timber from our mountain estate. We prioritize responsibly harvested wood, ensuring that each tree selected for milling is well-suited for the intended purpose. This initial step is the foundation of the entire aging process.

Step 2: The Aging Process

The heart of our craftsmanship lies in the aging of the timber. We believe in the beauty of patience, and often. this two-year period allows nature to work its magic. During this time, the wood undergoes significant changes that enhance its quality and characteristics.

1. Moisture Content Stabilization

Freshly harvested timber contains a high moisture content. Allowing the wood to air-dry naturally for two years helps stabilize this moisture content. This is critical for preventing warping, cracking, and other structural issues that can plague hastily processed wood.
Green trees that have fallen or need to be removed will require sealing the ends with a insect resistant primer. This will ensure even drying and prevent infestation. Products such a Kilz are available at any DIY outlet.

2. Enhanced Strength and Durability

As the wood ages, its cell structure undergoes transformation. This results in increased strength and durability, making the wood more resilient and better suited for a wide range of applications, from furniture to architectural elements.

3. Reduced Resin and Extractives

During aging, the timber naturally releases resins and extractives that can affect the appearance and performance of wood products. Our two-year aging process helps reduce these unwanted substances, resulting in a cleaner and more visually appealing wood.

The Science Behind the Art

Step 3: Precision Milling

Once the aging process is complete, we move on to the milling stage. This is where the science behind our art comes into play.

1. Dimensional Stability

The aging process ensures that the wood is dimensionally stable. This means that when we mill it, the resulting boards are less likely to warp, twist, or bow, ensuring that the final product maintains its shape and integrity over time.

2. Improved Finish

Aged wood accepts finishes and stains more evenly, resulting in a more consistent and beautiful final appearance. The natural aging process also imparts a unique patina to the wood, further enhancing its visual appeal.

Sustainability and Quality

Step 4: A Commitment to Sustainability

Our dedication to sustainability extends to every aspect of our operation. By aging timber for two years, we reduce the need for chemical treatments and artificial drying processes, aligning with our commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Step 5: Exceptional Quality

The culmination of our meticulous aging process is exceptional quality. Each piece of wood that leaves our workshop has been carefully aged, hand-selected, and crafted to perfection. The result is not just a wood product; it’s a work of art that will stand the test of time.