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moisture content

moisture content

moisture content

(OP)
Does anyone have any info regarding moisture content at the time of manufacture and / or the time of delivery of wood products (mainly dimensional lumber) to a jobsite?  I'm trying to estimate shrinkage and am having trouble finding initial moisture content values.  Thank you.  

RE: moisture content

If I remember it must be under 19% - closer to 15% is the rule.  In service it should drop to 5-10% depending on ambient humidity and use.

RE: moisture content

Most dimension Lumber, 2" in nominal thickness, is surfaced at the mill to the dry standard and would show S-Dry on the grade stamp..  The dry standard requires the material to be at a moisture content of 19% or less at the time of surfacing.  So most 2x4's, 2x8's, 2x10's & 2x12's are at a moisture content close to 19% when they are surfaced.

Field studies have shown that S-Dry lumber averages around 15% moisture content by the time it reaches the job site.  There is also a MC-15 standard that requires the material to be less then 15% at the time of surfacing.

Dimension lumber 3" to 4" in thickness and all timbers are surfaced green, with a moisture content exceeding 30% at the time of surfacing.  

RE: moisture content

Most low end lumber is KD19 or KD15.  This stands for Kiln Dried to 19% moisture or 15%, respectively.  Some is dried to lower values, but will likely cost a lot.  I only see lower values in cabinet lumber and furniture.

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