LumberJocks Woodworking Forum banner

Moisture Meters

2K views 4 replies 4 participants last post by  SawDustnSplinters 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have finally found a sawmill down below Atlanta with great prices on custom cut hardwood lumber. This is air dried lumber and I want to get a handle on moisture content. This is a new one for me. I want to be sure that moisture is at least close to 6-8% before I have it sawed and take it home. I need help on choosing and purchasing a moisture meter. Any one out there with some advice?
 
#5 · (Edited by Moderator)
I use the Lignomat mini-Ligno DX it has worked well for three years now….you might find a used one on ebay or craigslist.org

http://www.lignomat.com/MoistureMeter/moisture_pin_meters.wood+nonwood.mini.DX.htm

Bob is right most air-dried lumber will be close to the EMC (equilibrium moisture content) for for wood outdoors and what region you are in. Around here it is between 12-13 %...even after you take 6-8% wood out of a kiln it will gain moisture to the EMC. So before and after you plane it, sticker it, put some weight on it and let it rest for a few days and equalize to the shop's environment… For Atlanta, GA it is around 13.9% on average in September. It will vary from day to day and with the weather.. A good book to use as a reference is:

http://www.harvestingurbantimber.com/HUTbook.html
 
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top