I just acquired some tree stumps, logs 'n such from my neighbor. Some of the pieces look like they would make for good projects(table tops, turnings, etc) although I can't get to them till later, maybe 3 mos+. The trees were dead for quite a while but most pieces are solid, and pretty heavy - not sure what type - the bark is just falling off most of it - maybe from Dutch Elm??
Anyway, I need to know what type of sealer to look for to put on the ends to keep it from cracking and splitting too much, esp. if I can't work on some of it for even 6 mos.
You would be better off harvesting them now and putting the pieces under cover until you are ready to use them. If you can't do that, I would use a latex based exterior paint.
Posts: 485 | Location: Rogers City, MI | Registered: Sep 25, 2007
If you go to Woodcraft, or Rockler, they sell a special paint that you seal the end grain with. This will help the logs from loosing moisture too fast from the ends and will help reduce checking.