The process of drying wood is called?

The process of drying wood is referred to as seasoning. Seasoning involves reducing the moisture content of the wood to a level that is suitable for its intended use. This is crucial because wood can warp, crack, or develop mold if it retains too much moisture.

Through seasoning, the wood is better stabilized, which enhances its strength, durability, and overall quality for construction purposes. This process can occur naturally through the air (air drying) or can be expedited using heated kilns (kiln drying).

In contrast, saturation refers to the state where wood is fully absorbed with moisture, and controlling moisture generally pertains to the management of humidity and moisture levels in the environment, rather than specifically the drying process. Expansion describes the physical change in wood’s dimensions when it absorbs moisture, which is opposite to the objective of seasoning.