Moisture Mapping is an essential process for ensuring the longevity and quality of wood structures. Understanding the moisture content within wood is crucial for preventing decay, structural damage, and other issues.
What is Moisture Content in Wood?
Moisture content, often abbreviated as MC, refers to the amount of water present in wood relative to its dry weight. It is typically expressed as a percentage. Understanding the moisture content in wood is critical for its proper use and maintenance.
- Green Wood: Wood freshly cut from trees has a high moisture content, typically above 30%.
- Air-Dried Wood: As wood dries naturally, its moisture content decreases. Air-dried wood typically has an MC between 10% and 15%.
- Kiln-Dried Wood: Wood that has been dried in a kiln or oven has a lower moisture content, usually below 8%.