Wood Moisture and Woodworking: Tips for Better Finished Products
When it comes to woodworking, there are many variables that can impact both the ease of working with a material and the finished result. One of the most important factors you will need to consider when completing woodworking projects is the moisture level of the wood you are using. But what are acceptable moisture levels in wood anyways?
At CanCam, we are your source for industrial CNC routers and are your top choice when looking to upgrade your workshop to a professional-level machine. If woodworking is your passion, you are likely already in the know about many aspects of woodworking. However, fine-tuning your skills and knowledge can go a long way towards improving your products. In this post, we explore the optimal wood moisture level for woodworking and help you strengthen your knowledge and skills.
To explore how a CNC router can drastically improve your woodworking workshop, see our post, Why a CNC Machine Can Make All the Difference for Your Furniture Makings Startup.
What Moisture Level Should Wood Be for Woodworking?
Have you been wondering; how dry should wood be for furniture making? In most cases, wood should typically have a moisture content between 6-8% for woodworking and furniture making. This moisture percentage is considered ideal for most woodworking projects as it allows the wood to be stable and less likely to warp or shrink after it has been worked with.
Wood with higher moisture content may be more prone to shrinking, warping, or cracking as it dries further and should generally be avoided. It is important to allow wood to acclimate to the environment where it will be used to ensure that its moisture content remains stable. Paying attention to moisture levels will not only make your materials easier to work with, but it will also go a long way towards protecting the quality of your work.
What Wood Types are Best for Furniture Making?
The moisture level of wood is an important aspect of furniture making and woodworking, though wood type is something that shouldn’t be overlooked. There are many options available including hardwood, softwood, and engineered wood. Be sure to pick a wood type that allows you to create the desired style and functionality of your finished product.
See our post, What is the Best Wood for Making Furniture? Your Guide to Choosing the Ideal Wood Type, for more information on selecting the right wood option for furniture making.
At CanCam, we are committed to providing our customers with a superior customer experience. Contact a member of our team today to discuss the needs of your workshop and let us help you discover a professional CNC router that can take your productivity to new levels.
