Dry rot can occur when wood appears visually dry but has moisture content above what percentage?

Dry rot, which refers to a specific type of wood decay caused by fungi, can indeed develop even when wood appears to be dry. The moisture content threshold for wood to be at risk for dry rot is typically recognized as being above 20%. When the moisture content exceeds this level, it creates an environment conducive to fungal growth, which can lead to the degradation of the wood structure over time.

Wood that is visually dry but has a moisture content above 20% can still support the growth of dry rot fungi. The fungi thrive in these conditions, consuming the cellulose and hemicellulose in the wood, ultimately compromising its integrity. It is essential for restoration professionals to recognize that visual inspections alone may not provide a complete assessment of wood condition and moisture content measurement is critical in preventing dry rot.

Understanding this relationship between moisture content and the risk of dry rot is vital for anyone involved in water damage restoration and building maintenance, as it helps in making informed decisions regarding remediation and treatment to protect the structural integrity of buildings.