### Wood Moisture Content

Wood moisture content (MC) signifies the amount of water present in the wood relative to its oven-dry weight. It is a crucial factor in determining the stability, durability, and susceptibility of wood to damage. Moisture moves in and out of wood in response to changes in the surrounding environment.

### Preferred Moisture Content for Wood Treatment

The ideal moisture content for treating wood depends on the intended treatment and wood species. Generally, wood is treated when its MC falls within a specific range:

* **8-12% MC:** Suitable for most wood treatments, including pressure treatment with chemicals.
* **12-15% MC:** Acceptable for surface treatments, such as paint or stain.
* **15% MC and above:** Not recommended for wood treatments as higher MC can lead to treatment inefficiencies and wood decay.

### Impact of MC on Treatment

Optimizing MC before treatment is essential for effective results:

* **Too high MC:** May interfere with treatment chemical penetration, reducing their effectiveness.
* **Too low MC:** Can result in the wood absorbing too much treatment chemical, leading to potential health hazards and environmental concerns.
* **Moist environments:** Wood in moist environments can absorb additional moisture, necessitating moisture mapping to determine the appropriate treatment时机.