18% Moisture Content

rjordan392

How does one determine the moisture content of wood before applying stain or paint. Instructions usually say wait for 3 dry days. Can one count on this as dry enough?

poppameth

Usually that's plenty but it can all depend on temperature and humidity. The only way to tell for sure is to get a moisture meter. You can usually get one for about $20 that is good enough for this purpose.

Mike Swearingen

18%-19% moisture content is what you have with kiln-dried lumber, but not pressure-treated or green lumber that have not been kiln-dried.
If you're priming and painting new lumber, I would get a moisture meter. Even kiln-dried lumber will absorb high humidity.
As you know, lumber that has too much moisture will bubble and peel your primer and paint in short order. The meter is well worth it to avoid such problems.
Good luck!
Mike

rjordan392

Thanks,
It would be well worth it as I will be using Sikkens solid color stain.
I'll check the web for moisture meters.

slickshift

I use a moisture meter
Your local Paint Store or Contractor Supply or Lumberyard should have the $35 one