Tight Fitting Log Joinery
Vacuum Kiln Dried logs and timbers are in a stable condition before construction begins. Joinery that is so skillfully crafted on our site stays as tight as the day it was originally fitted. Visually this is more appealing than the gaps and spaces that occur as a result of unpredictable movement of logs or timbers with a higher moisture content. This also ensures the integrity of our sealant systems and construction techniques.
Average Core Moisture Content of 16% to 19%
Pristine has 10 years experience using a patented vacuum kiln drying process. We are able to achieve stable and consistent core moisture content. We determine the moisture content by measuring the volume of water that is removed from the logs or timbers as they are being dried and relate this information to the specific weight of the log/timber to provide a very accurate reading. By contrast, moisture meters, which are designed to determine moisture content in lumber, are only able to measure just under the surface of the log - not deep enough to provide precise information. Additionally, different instruments will register different readings on the same log/timber - not nearly as reliable as the method used by Pristine.
Elimination of Log Shrinkage
Logs that go through our Kiln Drying process will not experience a further reduction in diameter. Logs that have been Kiln Dried are firmer and have greater structural integrity than either green or standing dead logs. As a result, there is less compression at the notches and joints than would normally be expected. The result is a significantly reduced overall log wall compression of 2% to 3%.
Pristine Structures can be Designed with Confidence
Log structures have become more challenging to build as Architects and Designers strive for new, innovative and unique designs. Green unstable logs have been a negative influence on the ability to create these unique designs. Contractors can be called back to fix problems ultimately caused by the excessive shrinkage and compression of the log work. Using Vacuum Kiln Dried logs and timbers will have significant positive impact in the prevention of these issues resulting in Designers, Contractors and their Clients experiencing a high level of satisfaction.
Greater Availability of Log Sizes and Species
Until now, the handcrafted industry standard for dry logs has been limited to dead standing timber. We have introduced a new higher standard with our Vacuum Kiln Drying system. We choose only the very best material from a large, very accessible and high quality inventory of green logs supplied by our parent company located on our premise. These logs are brought in from all over the Province.
