1. Timber - General

1.1 All timber must be seasoned and brought to the suitable/optimal moisture content for the project or area of the project.

1.2 The ONLY accurate way to assess moisture content is by conducting a Electrical resistance and impedance tests (using a calibrated moisture meter)

Above - ‘Surface Only’ Moisture Meter

Above - ‘Prong Style’ Moisture Meter

1.3 All teams will have a moisture meter available for use on sites. If your site does not have a moisture meter see your Team Leader. Never under estimate the influence humidity has on timber and timber doors. Refer to the Timber Queensland website for further site specific details.

1.4 The final finish coat (paint or sealer) must not be applied unless the moisture in the timber is 10-13%. This will mean re-checking installed timber prior to application.

1.5 Timber with 9% or less must be stored on site to allow moisture to stabilise/equalise to within the optimal range before installing and / or painting.

1.6 Non finishing timber i.e.: studs with in walls etc must not be enclosed unless the moisture content in the timber is also in the 10- 15% optimal range or no greater than 16% - Refer to the BSA website.

1.7 Timber will move (even when correctly acclimatised and installed) so design must cater for movement/s in the timber profile, detailing of junctions, terminations and so on. Select the right timber for the application and use the most appropriate detailing to accommodate the expected / predicted movement/s.