Moisture Content of Wood

Video Transcript:

Why Is Wood Moisture Content So Important?

Here is a quick overview on understanding moisture content in wood and what effects it has.

The moisture content level within timber ultimately dictates the subsequent movement and potential distortion when in service.

Where your timber item is to be used affects the amount of movement and what happens to the wood.

Wood for indoors will be different to wood used outside. The moisture content will need to match the space.

Consideration to the time of year of any given installation is needed, as the timber will affectively acclimatize to its environment.

The moisture content of wood depends on the relative humidity and temperature of the air surrounding it.

This is all because wood is hygroscopic.

It will take on water in wet environments (expanding) and lose water when dry (shrinking).

This causes movement, surface and even whole component distortion or damage.

This is unavoidable but can be reduced and managed by -

Selecting the right timber for the job a

Ensuring that the moisture content at the time of processing and installation is correct. b

If you use timber regularly we recommend that you invest in an accurate, quality moisture meter.

We hope this has been of help but please check out our blog to learn more.