Moisture mapping is the process of measuring and analyzing the moisture content of wood. It is commonly used in the construction and restoration industries, as well as by homeowners, to assess the moisture levels in wood structures and identify potential moisture-related issues.
Wood’s moisture content is typically expressed as a percentage, representing the ratio of the weight of water in the wood to the weight of the dry wood.
The majority of the moisture in wood is found in the cell walls, which are composed of cellulose and hemicellulose.
Wood can contain more than 100% moisture content when it is saturated with water. This can occur when wood is submerged in water or exposed to high humidity for an extended period of time. In this state, the wood’s moisture content is equal to or greater than the fiber saturation point (FSP), where all of the available cell wall spaces within the wood are occupied by water.
When wood contains over 100% moisture content, the excess water is held in the cell lumina and is referred to as free or unbound water.
Wood with a moisture content above the FSP is at risk for a variety of moisture-related issues, including decay, mold growth, and structural damage. It is essential to monitor moisture levels in wood and address any issues promptly to prevent damage and ensure the longevity of wood structures.