When is lumber considered dry based on moisture content?

Lumber is considered dry when it has a moisture content of 19% or lower. This moisture content is significant in the context of construction and woodworking, as using lumber that is too wet can lead to structural issues, such as warping, shrinking, or mold growth once it dries out further in the environment of the finished building.

In many construction standards, including those relevant to the Tennessee residential building codes, a moisture content of 19% is a benchmark for dry lumber, ensuring that it is suitable for use in most applications, particularly in interior construction. At this moisture level, the wood is deemed stable and will not continue to lose moisture significantly, thus maintaining its structural integrity and performance as intended in the building process.