I already have a method to dry wood. Why would I want to use a vacuum kiln to dry wood instead?
Vacuum kiln drying offers several advantages over traditional methods. It delivers the quickest results, often drying wood in just one to three days, and it greatly reduces the risk of defects such as checking and cracking. Wood can be dried to any target moisture content, regardless of environmental conditions. The process can also save valuable shop space, since the faster turnaround between acquiring and using the wood means less inventory on hand. Additional benefits and practical tips are detailed in the book.
Does this book cover advanced applications or is it more for beginners?
Vacuum Kiln Drying is written primarily for beginners with no prior experience in vacuum kiln drying. For those with more experience seeking advanced topics, please note that this edition does not cover multi-chamber setups, commercial vacuum kiln systems, stabilizing wood with polymers, or staining and dying wood.
I have a SawStop® saw and need to be sure my lumber is dry on the inside so the safety system doesn't engage when I'm cutting wood. Will this kiln enable me to dry my lumber to a specific moisture content throughout each piece?
If you use a SawStop® saw on wood that appears dry on the outside but still has high moisture content inside, the safety system could activate, which would destroy the expensive single-use brake cartridge and blade. Vacuum kiln drying ensures that the moisture content is consistent throughout each piece of wood, from core to surface. This uniform drying is a unique advantage of the vacuum kiln process, allowing you to trust your moisture meter and work confidently without guessing whether the wood is completely dry inside and out.
How much technical expertise is needed to build the vacuum kiln drying chamber and dry my wood?
Vacuum Kiln Drying for Woodworkers provides clear, step-by-step instructions on building your kiln, including guidance on sourcing the specialized parts needed for the project. You will also need some common tools and supplies available at most hardware stores, along with basic mechanical skills and a can-do attitude. No advanced expertise is required, making the project within reach for anyone willing to follow the instructions.
What is the largest size of wood I can dry with this setup?
You can build the vacuum kiln to virtually any size that suits the wood you want to dry. The primary example in the book measures 13" in diameter and 3' long, but several other examples—both larger and smaller—are included. It is possible to scale up to 24" in diameter and 9' in length using readily available parts. For even larger systems, you can fabricate a custom container as long as it is strong enough to withstand the forces created by the vacuum. Keep in mind that as the kiln size increases, so do material costs and construction complexity.
How much will the whole vacuum kiln drying setup cost?
The vacuum kiln drying setup described in the book typically costs around $500, including a vacuum pump and several optional items. But costs can vary: larger or custom-built chambers may be more expensive, and if you already own a suitable vacuum pump, the price could be lower. Alternative setups in the book could run as little as $200 or up to $1000, depending on your choices. Overall, the investment in a vacuum drying system is small compared with the value of the wood you’ll be drying, making it a cost-effective solution for serious woodworkers.
How long will it take to build the vacuum kiln drying chamber and dry my wood?
Once you have all the parts on hand, the chamber itself could be assembled in a single day. Drying time depends on the starting moisture content of the wood. A load can dry in as little as half a day, or it may take several days for wetter material.
Is there a vacuum kiln drying kit I can purchase with all the parts I need?
No, there isn’t an all-in-one kit available. Instead, Vacuum Kiln Drying for Woodworkers walks you step-by-step through everything you need—and everything you need to do—to build your own vacuum drying chamber. The book also includes: examples of off-the-shelf chambers that can get you up and running quickly, customization options to adapt a kiln to your specific needs, a resource directory with links to parts suppliers, plus troubleshooting guidance and answers to common questions. The goal is to give you flexibility and understanding—so you can build a system that fits your shop, budget, and drying objectives rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all kit.
I have an earlier edition of the book. What's new in the 5th edition?
The 5th edition reflects years of continued hands-on experience and reader feedback. While each previous edition introduced meaningful improvements, this latest edition represents the most refined, complete, and up-to-date version of the book. It is designed to be a practical, reliable, and comprehensive resource you can confidently draw from—especially in an era when online information is often vague, incomplete, or simply inaccurate.
If I buy the book and decide it's not for me, can I return it?
When purchased through Amazon.com, returns are subject to Amazon’s policies and any applicable fees.
Where can I buy the book?
The 5th edition is the most current edition available. You can purchase it through Amazon using the link provided here:
Vacuum Kiln Drying For Woodworkers