How to check the moisture content of wood without a meter

Moisture content in wood can significantly impact its properties and performance. Without specialized meters, it's possible to assess wood's water content using simple, yet reliable methods like the TDS (total dissolved solids) approach.

What is TDS?

TDS refers to the amount of dissolved minerals, salts, and other compounds present in water. By measuring TDS, we can indirectly determine the water content in wood.

Steps to Measure Moisture Content Using TDS:

Collect a Wood Sample: Gather a small sample of the wood, preferably from a non-critical area, to avoid damaging the wood.
Prepare the Sample: Use a sharp knife or saw to cut the wood into small pieces or shavings of approximately equal size.
Soak the Sample: Submerge the wood pieces in a container filled with clean, distilled water.
Measure TDS: Use a TDS meter or test strips to measure the TDS level of the soaking water after 24 hours.

Interpretation of Results:

Higher TDS readings indicate higher water content in the wood. A general rule of thumb is:

Low TDS (below 50 ppm): Wood is relatively dry (below 10% moisture content).
Medium TDS (50-100 ppm): Wood has moderate moisture content (10-20%).
High TDS (above 100 ppm): Wood has high moisture content (above 20%).

Advantages of TDS Method:

Simplicity: Requires minimal equipment and expertise.
Accuracy: Provides a reasonable approximation of wood moisture content.
Non-Destructive: Negligible impact on the wood sample.

Limitations of TDS Method:

Accuracy may vary: TDS readings can be affected by impurities in water or wood.
Not absolute: The method provides an estimate rather than a precise measurement.

While not a substitute for precise moisture meters, the TDS method offers a useful alternative for assessing wood moisture content in various applications, including woodworking, home inspections, and lumber storage.