What is the equilibrium moisture content of wood?

The equilibrium moisture content of wood (EMC – Equilibrium Moisture Content) is the state at which wood neither absorbs nor releases moisture from its surroundings. It depends on the temperature and relative humidity of the surrounding air.

Why is it important to know the equilibrium moisture content of wood?

Knowing the EMC is essential for drying, storing, and processing wood. Wood that is not in equilibrium with its surroundings may crack, warp, or swell and may damage finished products.

What wood moisture content is suitable for interior use?

For interior use (furniture, flooring, wall cladding), a wood moisture content of 6–10% is recommended. For structural timber used outdoors, a value of up to 20% is acceptable.

Does the calculator result apply to all wood species?

Yes, the equilibrium moisture content depends primarily on ambient conditions – air temperature and humidity – and applies generally to wood as a material regardless of the particular wood species.

Wood moisture
EMC calculation according to temperature and air humidity

Enter the ambient temperature and relative humidity. The calculator determines the equilibrium moisture content of wood – the value at which wood neither absorbs nor releases moisture.

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Wood moisture (absolute)

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Environment - Temperature (°F)

Relative humidity (%)

The final value is approximate and due to various factors may differ from the actual value.Did you find an inaccuracy?

Did you find an inaccuracy?

Our aim was to create calculators for wood professionals that provide the most accurate results possible. However, there are many coefficients, standards, deviations, and calculation methods that vary by country and local conditions, so it is not possible to cover all locations with 100% accuracy immediately. For some calculators, however, it is possible to enter custom parameters, such as wood densities or growth factors.
However, the system is designed so that we can refine it gradually, and we would appreciate your feedback, which will help us improve the calculators further and adapt them to practical use.

Tree species parameters

Wood species parameters, such as density, can vary significantly depending on location and growing conditions. To account for these natural variations, we offer fine-tuning options that help ensure accurate and reliable data adapted to specific environments.

Tree species parameters »

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Most commonly used wood species by the user

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Wood moistureEMC calculation according to temperature and air humidity

Wood moisture (absolute)

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Tree species parameters

Preferred species

Wood moisture
EMC calculation according to temperature and air humidity