Moisture is a common problem in wood framing, as it can lead to rot, mold, and other damage. To prevent these issues, it’s important to ensure that moisture levels in wood framing are at acceptable levels.
The acceptable moisture level in wood framing varies depending on the wood species, the location, and the intended use of the framing. However, in general, the moisture content should be between 10% and 15%.
Moisture content that exceeds 19% can lead to a range of problems, including:
Moisture content that is too low can also cause problems, such as:
Therefore, it’s important to maintain moisture levels in wood framing within the acceptable range.
Moisture mapping is a diagnostic tool that can be used to determine the moisture content of wood framing. This information can be used to identify areas where moisture levels are too high or too low, so that corrective action can be taken.
Moisture mapping is typically performed using a moisture meter. These devices have two probes that are inserted into the wood framing, and they measure the electrical resistance between the probes. The resistance is then converted into a moisture content reading.
Moisture mapping is a valuable tool for ensuring that moisture levels in wood framing are within acceptable limits. By identifying areas where moisture levels are too high or too low, it can help to prevent problems such as rot, mold, and structural damage.