We have all heard about the terrible forest fires in the West in the past few years, and especially the Camp Fire in November 2018. Let’s look at forest fires from a forestry point of view. But before beginning, we do want to voice our cares and concerns for those who lost family and friends and to those that lost homes, belongings and a lifetime of irreplaceable items in the Camp Fire and all wildfires. Forest fire basics

A look at symptoms, causes and cures for a variety of problems.

The defect of splitting is the result of drying after the product is made.

The Wood Doctor dispels some commons misconceptions about bamboo.

Q. We seem to be having more troubles with cypress lumber. Problems include cupping and brittleness. We are in Colorado where conditions are dry, so we like to get fairly dry lumber when we order. What can we do better?

Q. What causes door rails, especially long ones, and stiles to warp during and after machining?

Q. With the higher prices for lumber, what can we do to increase yield? Any increases should have tremendous benefits in our profits.

What is the best species for wood exposed to the elements on a house, shutters, window sash, etc.? Is one type of pine better? How come old sash without paint lasts longer than modern sash with paint?

Can dry humidity in a home cause oak furniture to face check or crack? These are within the wood pieces and not at the glue joint.

Q. Due to a recent severe storm with lots of rain, some of our kiln-dried lumber in storage has increased its moisture above the acceptable moisture content. How can we dry this out?