Is 15% Moisture Content Too High for Wood?
Asked by WoodW0rks123
I'm about to get my hands on some wood that's said to have a moisture content (MC) of 15%. That feels a bit high to me, but the seller insists it's workable. I can get it kiln dried as needed, so I'm not concerned about reducing the moisture further. I've always thought that less than 10% is the ideal for working with wood. What do you folks think?
Answers
I had some problems with wood at that moisture level previously, particularly with cupping. So if it’s for a personal project, you might be fine, but for client work, I’d recommend sticking to kiln-dried wood to avoid headaches.
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Moisture content can vary significantly based on your area’s humidity. For example, wood from Arizona is generally drier than wood from Washington during the rainy season. If you’re in a humid area, 15% might actually be high, but if you’re getting a good deal, it could be worth it. Just remember to acclimate the wood to your shop environment for a few days after kiln drying to avoid issues.
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It really depends on what you plan to do with the wood. If you’re doing some general woodworking, 15% might be okay, just sticker it inside and let a fan run on it for a week to help it dry out a bit more. But for a more precise project, like furniture where you need tight joinery, that moisture level could be problematic. Just keep an eye on it!
WoodW0rks123: Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely give it some extra drying time before I dive into any detailed work.
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WoodW0rks123: I hear you! The deal sounds good, and I can wait a bit if needed. Just trying to avoid unnecessary kiln drying.