Moisture mapping is a crucial technique employed to assess and manage moisture levels in structures, particularly in wooden components. By utilizing specialized equipment, moisture mapping accurately measures and visually presents variations in moisture content, enabling the identification of potential moisture-related issues and the implementation of appropriate remediation measures.
Wood moisture content (MC) refers to the amount of water present in a wood specimen. Expressed as a percentage, it indicates the weight of water retained in the wood compared to its dry weight. Typically, wood MC ranges from 0% (anhydrous) to around 30%, with variations depending on factors such as species, environmental conditions, and moisture history.
While uncommon, it is theoretically possible for wood to exceed 100% MC. This occurs when the wood absorbs water beyond its maximum water-holding capacity. In such cases, the excess water fills the voids between wood fibers, resulting in a saturated condition known as “free water.” However, it’s important to note that wood in this state is highly unstable and prone to deterioration.