There is an intrinsic relationship between moisture content and the performance of timber and wood based products. This is because wood is a naturally hydroscopic material and will gain or lose moisture in sympathy with its surrounds.

The correct specifications, and more importantly the correct moisture content at installation, are absolutely essential to ensure the product you have chosen performs to the highest standard. For instance in "covered and generally heated end uses" BS.5268 pt 2 recommends structural timber is at a moisture content of 20% when installed. Don't take the risk, specify the correct moisture content and make sure the goods delivered to site meet that requirement.

Unfortunately, poor site practice can easily negate the hard work put in by designers and suppliers. Timber and wood based products need to be given adequate protection from the elements between delivery and installation. Where appropriate wood based products may also need to be conditioned before use.

The procedures and equipment required to check timber is at the correct moisture content are simple and cheap. For further information on any aspect of moisture content please use the contact page.

"Conditioned" is the process of allowing timber or wood based products to stand in their end use environment for a period of time prior to installation.