How Are Live Edge Slabs Made?
How are live edge slabs made, anyway?
A live edge slab is used to create unique pieces of furniture that can add natural beauty to your home. But how are they made?
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the process of making a live edge slab. Keep reading to learn all about how live edge slabs are made now.
How to Cut Live Edge Wood Slabs with a Slabbing Mill
To start, we need to cut the log into live edge slabs. Level the log and place it within the frame. Logs may be positioned parallel to the frame so they’re cut straight. They should be leveled before being cut so that they are all of equal length on each end.
Make slabs at least 3″ thick by lowering the blade to the desired height. Start the sawmill and push the blade through the log to cut through it. The chainsaw mill’s chain will slice through the log, producing your first slab.
Continue along the same steps as described above, working your way through the log. After each slab is removed, a forklift may be required to move them because they are hefty.
Working With Live Edge Wood Slabs
After slicing the slabs from the log, the wood should be kiln-dried. The bark should fall right off of a dried slab.
The slabs may then be sent to a drum sander where the rough edges are sanded down. Then sand the wood surface and edges to the desired smoothness. Live edge slabs produce a unique-looking product that is much smoother than natural wood due to the sanding process.
A final finish can be applied depending on your preference and the type of product you’re going for, including water-based sealers, waxes, lacquers, and more.
How to Care For Your Live Edge Slab to Ensure Its Longevity
Your live edge slab will last a long time if you properly maintain it. A yearly sealing of the surface and edges is recommended to keep your slab looking its best.
The maintenance process may vary depending on what type of material was used. Certain types of wood, such as maple, may require more frequent treatment.
How Are Live Edge Slabs Made FAQ
How thick should live edge slabs be?
The thicker the wood is milled, the less likely it is to warp and twist. To account for anticipated changes in the wood during the drying process, a trustworthy sawmill should be milling live edge slabs at least three inches thick.
How do I stop my live edge table from warping?
Store it upright, not laying down. Before purchasing, check for any dampness. Cover the wood with moving blankets and support the entire slab equally when transporting them.
Does live edge wood need to be kiln-dried?
Live edge furniture must be made of kiln-dried wood to produce heirloom-quality furniture pieces. While much of what is marketed as live edge slabs is “air dried,” not many have waited the several years required for the hardwood to air dry enough to become useable.
Closing on How Are Live Edge Slabs Made
Live edge slabs are a great way to add natural beauty and uniqueness to your home. Not only will you love the way it looks, but you will also appreciate its durability and longevity.
If you’re looking for a unique furniture piece, consider taking a look at one of our live edge tables. We offer several different options so you can find the right piece for your home.