How long should freshly cut timber be left to dry?

[abel48]

Been to get some wood sawn by a farmer. How long should it dry before it can be used? It does shrink a bit over time. Can it be measured with a simple moisture meter?

Best regards, Anders

 

[plank5]

I have been told 1 year but it is uncertain information.

 

[andersmc]

It also depends on what you are going to use it for. A year might be a good rule of thumb. But for slöjdvirke it's not enough. Timber for building can have a moisture content of 18% (I think, not entirely sure), but if you are going to have boards for a facade, a higher content can be acceptable.

 

[Eld]

If it dries under a roof outdoors, it should be brought down to about 12%. If it dries indoors, it should come down below 7%.

 

[abel48]

Ok thanks for all the answers... I was planning to use it now in the summer. I'm going to have them out on a patio. But it might be a risk to paint if they're not completely dry. But how much does a moisture meter cost?

Best regards, Anders