Purpose
This research aimed at providing guidance on best practices for managing timber’s moisture content (MC) throughout the Australian supply chain, during construction, and in service. The project sought to identify common problems and key factors influencing MC, building a knowledge base of equilibrium moisture content (EMC) conditions, and developing practical recommendations for timber producers, suppliers, and users.
Summary
The project reviewed literature, conducted industry surveys, and performed field monitoring to understand how timber’s MC changed during storage, transport, construction, and use. Researchers installed static monitoring units at 31 sites across Australia, covering different climate zones and exposure conditions. They found that timber’s MC changed to match its environment, with greater changes and risks occurring when timber moved between locations or was stored outside. Engineered wood products generally had lower EMC than solid timber. The study also tested how different wrapping methods affected MC during storage and transit, finding that interior storage minimized MC changes, while exterior storage—especially with poor or clear wrapping—led to large and sometimes damaging MC increases. Industry surveys revealed that most businesses considered MC management essential, but controlling MC after timber left the factory was difficult. The project developed a suite of guidance materials and a prototype online app to help industry assess and manage MC risks.
Benefits to the Forest and Wood Products Industry
This research provided several benefits to the industry:
- Improved understanding of how climate, storage, and handling affect timber’s moisture content and performance.
- Practical recommendations for wrapping, storage, and site management to reduce product loss and quality issues.
- Tools and guidance to help businesses assess MC risks, make better decisions, and increase customer confidence in timber products.
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by funding provided to Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) to administer the National Institute for Forest Products Innovation program (NIFPI).
Funding for the program was provided by the Australian Government, the Tasmanian Government and Australian forest and wood products industry.
