[dsm_breadcrumbs show_home_icon=”off” items_bg_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” admin_label=”Supreme Breadcrumbs” _builder_version=”4.23.1″ _module_preset=”default” items_text_color=”gcid-cd1279dd-8cbf-4f0f-bdb9-fb095ab96652″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-cd1279dd-8cbf-4f0f-bdb9-fb095ab96652%22:%91%22items_text_color%22%93}”][/dsm_breadcrumbs]

Moisture Mapping Understanding Wood Moisture Content and Its Impact

Wood Moisture Content

Moisture content is an important factor that affects the quality and performance of wood. Refer to the moisture content of wood as the amount of water it contains in relation to its dry weight. Moisture movement in wood can cause shrinkage, warping, and cracking if it is not properly controlled.

Why is Moisture in Wood Bad?

Excess moisture in wood can have several negative consequences:

  • Reduced strength and stiffness: As wood absorbs moisture, its strength decreases. This can make wood more susceptible to bending, breaking, and other forms of damage.
  • Increased susceptibility to rot and decay: Moisture provides a favorable environment for fungi and bacteria to grow, which can cause wood to rot and decay.
  • Warping and cracking: When wood absorbs or loses moisture, it can cause the wood to warp or crack. This can damage the wood’s appearance and make it less useful.
  • Corrosion of metal fasteners: Moisture can cause metal fasteners used in wood construction to corrode, which can weaken the structure and increase the risk of failure.

Moisture Mapping is a non-destructive technique used to measure the moisture content of wood. This information can be used to identify areas of high moisture content, which can then be targeted for further investigation and treatment. Moisture Mapping can help to prevent the negative consequences of excess moisture in wood, ensuring the longevity and performance of wood structures.