I like to use reclaimed lumber, and to saw some of my own from what’s available.
Some kind of boring insect makes an appearance in the stored lumber and uncut limbs, increasing waste when removing their tunnels and holes. They don’t seem to tunnel too deep, or at least not yet.
I store my material in a corner of an open front shed because it is what I have available. I don’t have an enclosed heated/cooled storage place, and really don’t want to spend the money for one. I’d rather buy materials and tools.
I’ve thought of covering the wood with plastic sheeting, or something, and putting moth crystals inside, but wonder if the smell would penetrate the wood, and show-up in the finished project. I’ve also considered some kind of an insecticide, but have the same feeling.
Any practical suggestions?
Replies
I don't have the answer to your question, but I would strongly argue against moth crystals. They are extremely toxic, and probably wouldn't help at all against the invasion you're aiming to prevent!!
forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
Who,
Sounds like powder post beetles. Kiln drying will kill the little fellas, or putting the wood in the freezer, as I recently found out. Sounds like you have full length boards, so the freezer option is probably out for you. Seethe "worm hole question" post on this forum for more info.
Lee
I had that same thing with some cedar fence boards a while back. They were extras from a previous job that I kept for "just in case", windstorms, etc. My shed was also open (one side). I just restacked them across the rafters . Cleaned'em off with a bench brush and stickered them. Never had that trouble again.
...The unspoken word is capital. We can invest it or we can squander it. -Mark Twain...
Insect invasion is something all outdoor stored wood is subject to. If you have a work shop of size, consider putting up heavy duty shelving on one of the walls. With 1/2" plywood 2' x 8' , you will have more than enough storage area for your wood, and no interference with shop tools.
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