At 1st Choice Millworks, we know that moisture is one of the most important factors affecting the long-term performance, stability, and beauty of architectural millwork, doors, and hardwood products. That’s why we’re sharing this authoritative chapter from the USDA Forest Products Laboratory’s Wood Handbook: Moisture Relations and Physical Properties of Wood.
This comprehensive guide explains exactly how wood interacts with moisture — from equilibrium moisture content (EMC) and fiber saturation point to shrinkage, swelling, density, thermal properties, and dimensional stability. Understanding these relationships helps ensure your millwork stays straight, tight, and trouble-free for decades, whether it’s installed indoors or exposed to seasonal humidity changes.
Download the full technical chapter below and use it as a reference when specifying or maintaining wood products. Questions about how these principles apply to your project? Our team is always happy to help.