What happens to wood if not seasoned?

Unseasoned wood, also known as "green" or "wet" wood, undergoes a process of seasoning or drying to reduce its moisture content and make it suitable for burning or construction. Here's what happens to wood if it's not seasoned:

1. High Moisture Content: Unseasoned wood has a high moisture content, typically ranging from 20% to 50%. This moisture content can cause various problems when using the wood.

2. Warping and Cracking: As unseasoned wood dries, it loses moisture unevenly, causing it to warp, twist, and crack. These distortions can make the wood unsuitable for certain applications, such as furniture or construction projects requiring precise dimensions.

3. Fungal Growth: Unseasoned wood provides a favorable environment for the growth of mold, fungi, and insects. These organisms can cause the wood to rot and deteriorate, compromising its strength and durability.

4. Inefficient Burning: When burned, unseasoned wood has a lower calorific value compared to seasoned wood. It produces less heat and more smoke, making it less efficient as a fuel source.

5. Increased Emissions: Unseasoned wood releases more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants when burned. These emissions can contribute to air pollution and have adverse effects on human health and the environment.

6. Greater Susceptibility to Insects: Unseasoned wood is more susceptible to damage by wood-boring insects, such as termites and carpenter ants. These insects are attracted to the moisture and nutrients present in unseasoned wood, leading to structural damage.

7. Reduced Strength and Durability: Unseasoned wood is weaker and less durable compared to seasoned wood. The high moisture content can soften the wood, making it more susceptible to damage from physical stresses and environmental factors.

8. Difficulties in Finishing: Applying finishes or coatings to unseasoned wood can be challenging. The moisture in the wood can interfere with the adhesion of paints, stains, and other surface treatments, leading to poor finishing results.

Therefore, it is essential to properly season wood before using it for various purposes. Seasoning allows the wood to dry slowly and evenly, reducing its moisture content and improving its overall properties and performance.