Moisture mapping, an essential technique in woodworking, involves assessing the moisture distribution within wooden structures to ensure their integrity and prevent potential damage.
The moisture content of wood, measured as the percentage of its weight attributed to water, is a crucial factor that determines its stability, strength, and resistance to decay. Properly seasoned wood, with a moisture content below 20%, is less susceptible to warping, shrinking, and splitting.
Contrary to popular belief, wood cannot contain moisture content exceeding 100%. When wood reaches fiber saturation point (FSP), its cells are fully saturated with water, resulting in a moisture content of approximately 30%. Wood above FSP contains free water in its cell cavities or voids, rather than being absorbed within the wood fibers. This excess water can contribute to the growth of mold and decay organisms, making it crucial to keep wood below FSP for optimal performance.