Green wood sealers & wood stabilisers
Green wood sealers & wood stabilisers
EXPERT KNOWLEDGE ANCHORSEAL® – SEALING GREEN WOOD
What is Anchorseal®?
Anchorseal® is a professional, wax emulsion-based end grain sealer developed to prevent or significantly reduce drying cracks at the cut ends of wood. It is used worldwide by sawmills, joineries, woodturners, forestry operations and skilled craftsmen .
The primary purpose of Anchorseal® is to slow the rapid loss of moisture at the end grain — the area where most drying cracks originate.
Why do cracks form at the ends of wood?
Cracking at the end grain is caused by differences in moisture movement and the resulting internal stresses within the wood.
1. Different drying rates
Wood consists of elongated fibres that absorb and release moisture. At the end grain, the fibres are exposed, whereas the side surfaces run parallel to the grain.
As a result, moisture escapes from the end grain significantly faster — in some species up to 10–15 times faster — than from the sides. This leads to rapid local shrinkage at the ends, while the core remains comparatively moist.
2. Uneven shrinkage
Wood shrinks mainly across the grain (radially and tangentially), with minimal shrinkage along the grain.
Because the end grain loses moisture more quickly, it shrinks sooner and more strongly than the inner areas. This creates tensile stresses, particularly at the surface of the end grain.
3. Development of internal stress
The difference in shrinkage between the outer and inner zones creates internal stresses within the wood.
Wood can only compensate for these stresses to a limited extent. Once the tensile stress exceeds the material’s strength, cracks form — typically starting at the end grain and progressing inwards.
4. Influencing factors
- Wood species: Hardwoods such as oak, beech or fruitwoods are more prone to cracking
- Surface condition: Rough-sawn, porous end grain dries more quickly
- Initial moisture content: Freshly sawn timber is particularly susceptible
- Temperature and airflow: Warm, dry air accelerates moisture loss
5. Timing
Moisture loss begins immediately after cutting.
Small cracks can develop within hours or days and may grow larger throughout the drying process.
Summary
End grain cracks are caused by rapid moisture loss, uneven shrinkage and internal stresses.
They are difficult to prevent without targeted protection of the end grain. Anchorseal® slows moisture loss in a controlled manner and significantly reduces stress within the wood.
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Sealing the end grain is therefore essential for maintaining wood quality.
How does Anchorseal® work?
After application, Anchorseal® forms a diffusion-inhibiting wax layer on the end grain:
- slows moisture loss in a controlled manner
- balances drying between end grain and side surfaces
- reduces internal stresses
- minimises cracking during storage and drying
The product is water-based and dries to a clear, wax-like protective film.
Advantages at a glance
✅ Significantly reduces end grain cracking
✅ Ideal for fresh (green) wood
✅ Easy to apply by brush, roller or sprayer
✅ Reduces waste and material loss
✅ Helps prevent fungal attack
Typical applications
Sawmills & forestry
- Sealing log ends
- Protection during transport and storage
- Sealing sawn boards, beams and squared timber
Joinery & timber construction
- Sealing freshly cut or processed timber
- Preparation for air or kiln drying
Woodturning & woodcraft
- Sealing blanks, bowls and sculptures
- Especially important for crack-prone species (e.g. fruitwood)
Speciality timber
- Tonewood, knife handles, furniture timber
Application
Preparation
- Apply as soon as possible after cutting
- Ensure end grain is clean and free from dirt
Application
- Stir thoroughly before use
- Apply generously and evenly
- For highly absorbent wood: apply a second coat
Tools
- Brush (wide, robust)
- Roller
- Sprayer (for larger volumes)
Drying
- Appears milky when applied, dries clear and waxy
- Water-resistant once dry
- Can be removed mechanically (sawing, planing)
Anchorseal® variants
Anchorseal® is available in 5 L and 10 L containers, as well as 200 L drums.
Anchorseal® 2 (green wood sealer, down to -4 °C)
Cost-effective variant using natural waxes instead of paraffin. Slightly lower viscosity, resulting in greater coverage.
Slightly less effective than the classic formulation under extreme conditions, but still highly effective compared to untreated wood.
Anchorseal® (green wood sealer, down to -4 °C)
The proven standard product, used worldwide for many years.
Suitable for:
- workshops and cellars
- moderate climatic conditions
Anchorseal® (green wood sealer, down to -12 °C)
Version for low temperatures.
Suitable for:
- unheated spaces (barns, sheds)
- winter use
⚠️ None of the variants are intended as a final surface finish. They provide temporary protection during drying.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Does Anchorseal® protect wood permanently outdoors?
❌ No. Anchorseal® is not a weatherproof coating, but a drying aid.
Can Anchorseal® be removed later?
✅ Yes. The wax layer can be easily removed by sawing, planing or sanding.
Can it be used on dry wood?
⚠️ Only to a limited extent. Best results are achieved on freshly cut wood.
Conclusion
Anchorseal® is one of the most effective solutions for sealing end grain and preventing drying cracks.
Anyone looking to reduce waste, maintain quality and work efficiently will benefit significantly from early treatment.
Anchorseal® is widely regarded as a reference product in the industry.
