Effects of Humidity

Hogan Hardwoods & Moulding is an Associate Member of AWI

Important Product Advisory

All Users of Architectural Woodwork Products

Dimensional Change Problems in Architectural Woodwork

This advisory concerns prevention of dimensional problems in architectural woodwork products as the result of uncontrolled relative humidity. It is further intended as a reminder of the natural dimensional properties of wood and wood-based products such as plywood, particleboard, and high pressure decorative laminate (HPDL) and of the routine and necessary care ― and responsibilities ― which must be assumed by those involved.

For centuries, wood has served as a successful material for architectural woodwork, and as history has shown wood products perform with complete satisfaction when correctly designed and used. Problems directly or indirectly attributed to dimensional change of wood are usually, in fact, the result of faulty design, or improper humidity conditions during site storage, installation, or use.

Wood is a hygroscopic material, and under normal use conditions all wood products contain some moisture. Wood readily exchanges this molecular moisture with the water vapor in the surrounding atmosphere according to the existing relative humidity. In high humidity, wood picks up moisture and swells: in low humidity wood releases moisture and shrinks. As normal minor fluctuations in humidity occur, the resulting dimensional response in properly designed construction will be insignificant. To avoid problems, it is recommended that relative humidity be maintained within the range of 25-55%. Uncontrolled extremes ― below 20% or above 80% relative humidity ― can likely cause problems.

Together with proper design, fabrication, and installation, humidity control is obviously the important factor in preventing dimensional change problems.

Architectural woodwork products are manufactured and designed from wood that has been kiln dried to an appropriate average moisture content and maintained at this condition up to the time of delivery. Subsequent dimensional change in wood is and always has been an inherent natural property of wood. These changes cannot be the responsibility of the manufacturer or products made from it. Specifically:

	Responsibility for dimensional change problems in wood products resulting from improper design rests with the designer/architect/specifier.
	Responsibility for dimensional change problems in wood products resulting from improper relative humidity exposure during site storage and installation rests with contractor.
	Responsibility for dimensional change problems in wood products resulting from humidity extremes after occupancy rests with engineering and maintenance.