Moisture Mapping Understanding Wood Moisture Content and Preferred Moisture Content for Treatment

What is Moisture Mapping?

Moisture mapping involves measuring and recording the moisture content of wood to determine its suitability for various purposes. By identifying areas with higher or lower moisture levels, professionals can make informed decisions regarding treatment, construction, and maintenance.

Wood Moisture Content

Wood moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water held within its fibers. It is expressed as a percentage of oven-dried weight, with the following ranges:

Green wood: MC above 30%
Air-dried wood: MC between 15-20%
Kiln-dried wood: MC below 12%

Preferred Moisture Content for Treating Wood

The optimal moisture content for treating wood depends on the type of treatment and the intended use. Generally, the following guidelines are advised:

Pressure treatment: MC between 15-25%
Fire retardant treatment: MC below 15%
Woodworking: MC between 8-12%

Proper moisture mapping ensures the correct identification of moisture levels, allowing for effective treatment and prevention of wood damage.