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  3. Equilibrium Moisture Content
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    Glossary
    Wood Movement

    Equilibrium Moisture Content

    also known as: EMC

    Definition

    The MC a board reaches in a given temperature and humidity. Each environment has its own EMC — heated homes drop to 6-8% in winter; humid summers push it to 10-12%.

    In use

    Indoors in winter, EMC drops to about 6%.

    Related Terms

    Moisture Content

    The percentage of water in wood by weight. Kiln-dried lumber arrives at 6-8% MC. Wood dimensional changes happen as MC changes.

    Fiber Saturation Point

    The moisture content at which wood cell walls are fully saturated but no free water exists. Roughly 30% MC. Wood does not move dimensionally above this point — only below.