Wood Moisture Content
Moisture content in wood refers to the amount of water vapor present within the wood’s cells.
Wood moisture content is critical for several reasons:
- It affects the wood’s strength and stability.
- It can impact the wood’s susceptibility to rot and decay.
- It can cause mold growth if moisture levels are too high.
At What Moisture Content Does Mold Grow on Wood?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp or humid environments, including on wood.
The moisture content at which mold growth occurs on wood can vary depending on the type of wood and the surrounding environment.
In general, mold growth on wood is most likely to occur when the moisture content exceeds 20%. However, some species of mold can grow at moisture contents as low as 15%.
Therefore, it is essential to keep the moisture content of wood below 20% to prevent mold growth.
Moisture Mapping
Moisture mapping is a process that can be used to measure the moisture content of wood and identify areas where the moisture content is too high.
Moisture mapping can be done using various techniques, including:
- Using a moisture meter
- Using a thermal camera
- Using a microwave sensor
Moisture mapping can be a valuable tool for identifying areas of moisture buildup and preventing mold growth.