Don’t Rush It: Why Pine Needs Some Down Time Before You Build
If you visit my house before a project (like right now), you’re likely to see a stack of pine boards hanging out inside. No, I’m not redecorating with wood piles—there’s a reason they’re indoors! Pine is fantastic for small indoor projects, but it needs a little TLC before you start working. Here’s why:
Pine is Awesome for DIY Projects
Pine is the MVP of affordable, versatile wood. It’s perfect for shelving, faux ceiling beams, board and batten, and more. It’s soft, easy to work with, and has that rustic charm we all love. But before you dive in, there’s one crucial step: let it acclimate to your indoor environment.
Why Acclimating Pine Matters
Pine, like all wood, is a natural material made up of fibers that are designed to absorb and transport water when the tree is alive. Even after being cut and processed, wood still has the ability to absorb and release moisture from its environment. This is because wood is hygroscopic, meaning it naturally responds to the humidity levels in the air around it.
FUN FACT: My Husband is a huge fan of the show ALONE and once went down a rabbit hole of learning about water filtration and how xylem fibers found in trees can absorb moisture well enough to filter water. Because pine is so great at this, it also explains why it's crucial to keep pine dry before building and why you should use pressure-treated or ground-rated pine for outdoor projects to prevent rot when in contact with moisture or soil.
So, if your pine is stored outside or in a humid space, it will absorb that moisture and swell up. If you bring it inside and work with it too soon, it could shrink as it dries out, causing warping, cracking, or joints that don’t fit together quite right.
The Takeaway
By letting pine acclimate to your indoor temperature and humidity for a few days (or up to a week if you’re patient), you give it time to settle into the environment it will be living in permanently. This means less chance of your beautiful board and batten, faux ceiling beams, flooring, or shelving warping over time.
So when you walk into my house and see a pile of pine boards hanging out, they’re not just taking a break—they’re preparing for greatness!
Ready to tackle your next DIY project but not sure which wood to use? Or do you want more information about the difference in “common” and “select” pine? My e-book, "How to Pick the Right Wood for Every DIY Project," has got you covered! From pine to oak and everything in between, this guide breaks down the characteristics and best uses for each material so you can choose the perfect wood for every project. Whether you’re building furniture, adding trim, or crafting something entirely unique, this e-book is your go-to resource.
Happy DIYing!
