Moisture Mapping Making Sense of Wood Moisture Content

Understanding Wood Moisture Content

Wood moisture content is a crucial factor that influences the strength, stability, and durability of wood. It refers to the amount of water present in the wood, expressed as a percentage of its oven-dry weight. Accurate measurement of wood moisture content is essential for a variety of reasons, including:

• Optimizing Drying Processes: Proper moisture content ensures efficient drying, preventing over-drying or under-drying, which can lead to damage or deterioration.


• Ensuring Structural Integrity: Balanced moisture content maintains the strength and stability of wood structures, such as buildings and furniture.


• Preventing Biological Decay: Excessive moisture can promote the growth of fungi and bacteria, which can compromise the integrity of wood.


• Assessing Wood Quality: Moisture content is an indicator of wood quality and can help determine its suitability for specific applications.

What is Moisture Content in Wood?

The moisture content of wood is primarily influenced by two factors:

• Free Water: Unbound water that fills the cell lumens and is easily evaporated.


• Bound Water: Water absorbed into the cell walls, held by molecular forces, and not readily released.

The moisture content of wood is typically measured using a moisture meter, which determines the electrical resistance or capacitance of the wood to estimate its water content.