What advantage does kiln drying provide for lumber?

Kiln drying provides a significant advantage by reducing the moisture content of lumber, which is crucial in preventing warping and other dimensional changes. When wood is cut from a tree, it contains a high level of moisture. As this moisture evaporates unevenly during air drying, the lumber can warp, crack, and twist as it adjusts to varying environmental conditions.

Kiln drying, on the other hand, uses controlled heat and humidity levels to accelerate the drying process while ensuring that moisture is evenly removed from the wood. This controlled environment helps stabilize the wood, making it less prone to issues that arise from changes in moisture content during its use in construction or furniture-making. Ultimately, well-dried lumber is less likely to warp and is more reliable and durable for various applications.