Moisture Mapping Acceptable Moisture Levels in Wood Framing
What is Moisture Mapping?
Moisture mapping is a non-destructive testing technique that is used to measure the moisture content of wood framing. This information can be used to identify areas of moisture intrusion, assess the extent of water damage, and determine the appropriate course of action for repair.
Acceptable Moisture Levels in Wood Framing
The acceptable moisture level in wood framing varies depending on the type of wood and the intended use of the structure. However, a general guideline is that the moisture content should not exceed 19%. Moisture levels above this threshold can increase the risk of wood rot, mold growth, and structural damage.
Acceptable moisture content levels
Moisture content can be measured as a percentage of the dry weight of the wood and is classified into the following categories:
- 0% - 11% - Dry wood
- 11% - 16% - Acceptable moisture content for wood framing
- 16% - 19% - Marginal moisture content for wood framing
- 19% and above - Excessive moisture content for wood framing
Wood moisture content that is above the acceptable range can create problems. Wood with a moisture content of 20% or more can lead to:
- Wood decay
- Wood rot
- Mold growth
- Insect infestation
- Structural damage
Regular moisture mapping can help identify areas of moisture intrusion and prevent these problems from occurring.