Page 16 - OHC Hard Woods Tech Guide - 08102017

HARDWOOD 1 of 2

InSTAllATIon TIpS

JobSITE SToRAgE/ACClImATIon

Exterior Use
Hardwoods for decking, pergolas, siding, soffits or other exterior applications need to be properly acclimated
to the environment before installation. The reason is moisture content. All hardwoods will, over time, come
to equilibrium with the relative humidity of the surrounding air. Depending on the climate, the equilibrium
moisture content can vary from 10%-18%. Kiln-drying hardwoods is recommended to reduce shrinkage,
cupping, and checking while lumber acclimates to its surrounding environment. Garapa, Tigerwood and
Cumaru are dried to a moisture content of 12%-16%; this adds stability during acclimation. Ipe is traditionally
sold air-dried because the density keeps the product from warping or cupping during acclimation, but it
can also be kiln-dried for extremely dry climates or interior use. The acclimation period depends on the
starting moisture content of the wood and the climate/temperature, but a good rule of thumb is 2-3
weeks in a dry space.

Interior Use
When used in interior applications like walls and ceiling, all hardwoods should be kiln-dried to 6%-8%
moisture content. Climate controlled spaces like homes and office building typically maintain a specific
relative humidity with controlled temperatures. Hardwoods that are above this moisture content will be
subjected to shrinkage, cupping and warping. When using hardwoods kiln-dried to 6%-8% for interior
applications make sure material is delivered and stored in the climate controlled area upon arrival to
avoid acclimation to exterior moisture levels.

SAfETy

Ipe and other hardwoods are more dense, therefore heavier, than most other woods. Do not try to
lift similar quantities of hardwoods compared to traditional softwoods. Most tropical hardwood
dust is carcinogenic and can cause breathing problems, so dust masks and protective eye wear are
recommended when cutting or sanding hardwoods.

ToolS

Carbide tipped saw blades with fewer teeth (16 teeth on 7-1/4” blades) stay cooler, reduce friction
when cutting, and stay sharper longer. When using a miter box saw, we recommend 10” or 12” saws
with roughly 24 teeth on 10” blades and 32 teeth on 12” blades.

Drilling hardwoods (especially Ipe) can be a challenge with improper drill bits. High speed steel tends to
fatigue quickly, causing the bit to dull faster or break. Titanium Nitride coated drill bits initially perform
well, but as the coating wears so does the performance. Cobalt Alloy drill bits are the most effective
when drilling into Ipe. When drilling, periodically lift the bit out of the hole to remove shavings.

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OHC Hard Woods Tech Gd.indd 16 8/10/17 1:32 PM