Moisture Control

Excerpt courtesy of Michael Waldvogel, Entomology Extension, NCSU

Knowing the moisture content of the wood is particularly helpful for problems with wood-boring beetle and wood-decaying fungi. Wood moisture content can only be determined using a moisture meter. Make sure that enough readings are collected so as to be truly representative of the area of concern. High wood-moisture readings (i.e., readings above 20%) in crawlspaces, attics or exterior walls of log homes could indicate problems other than simply insects. Mold/mildew growing on wood is a sign of excess moisture or high humidity, but not necessarily an indication that wood-rotting fungi are present.

If you suspect or are told that there is a moisture problem in your crawlspace, make sure that wood-moisture levels are measured with a meter. The readings need to be collected from areas throughout the crawlspace to get a better picture of overall conditions there. Wood in corners, particularly where ventilation is restricted, will generally have higher moisture readings. Weather and time of year also influence the moisture levels in wood. Ideally, wood-moisture content should be at or below 14%