Wood Finishing Lansing MI

Wood Stabilizer Prevents Cracks

Q. A recent storm left a large tree limb in our yard. I'd like to slice cross sections for plaques and trivets. How do I keep theslices from splitting as they dry?

A. Pentacryl wood preservative is an excellent product made forthis very purpose. A slice of wood will always split because, as itdries, the cells collapse and wither just like a dry sponge. Thisstress from contraction literally pulls the disk apart, usuallyresulting in a single, nasty split that runs from the bark edge towardthe pith. Pentacryl reinforces the cells so they retain their shape asthey dry. As a result, very little stress builds up in the wood andcracks rarely occur. Pentacryl is nontoxic and is compatible with anykind of finish. Here are a few tips about making plaques from DaleKnobloch, the owner of Preservation Solutions, which makes Pentacryl.
-  To keep the bark edge on a slab, cut the wood during the winter.
-   Wood that has been outside, especially in winter, should be brought to room temperature before you apply Pentacryl.
-   Don't overtreat—plan to soak your wood no more than five minutes for every inch of its thickness.
-  After treatment, the wood must be allowed to dry evenly. Make sure it is exposed to air on all sides.
-  Don't hurry the drying by adding heat or air movement.

Source:
Woodcraft, (800) 225-1153, www.woodcraft.com, Pentacryl wood stabilizer, 1 qt., #129318, $16; 1 gal., #129319, $47.

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