Q: One visitor asked, "I am installing maple hardwood that I salvaged a year ago. It seems that the moisture content is at 12% since we have had a wet year. I brought the wood into the house and now I am wondering how long it will take to dry to a desirable level. Also, is there anything I can do to speed the process?"

A: I would set the wood in the rooms where it is going to be installed and let it sit for a week or 2. Preferably, if by chance you have to put on the heat, don't stack it near the heat source in case you dry it out too much before installing it. I would think that in a couple of weeks it should be ok.