Tips on Checking the Moisture Level of Wood

Use this advice to learn how to check the moisture content of wood before choosing pieces for your next project.

Measure Moisture(1 of 4)

When choosing wood for your projects, take a careful look at the moisture content of the wood and the part of the log from which the wood was produced.

A moisture meter indicates the moisture content of the wood -- which changes as the wood dries. Place the moisture meter against a piece of wood to determine the moisture content. You may get different readings at different places on the wood, but 7 percent is the ideal moisture content level for building.

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