**Moisture Mapping**

Moisture mapping is a process of measuring the moisture content of wood. The moisture content of wood can affect the way that it behaves when painted, so it is important to check the moisture content before painting. Moisture mapping is a simple and inexpensive way to do this.

**Wood Moisture Content**

The moisture content of wood is the amount of water that is present in the wood. The moisture content can be expressed as a percentage of the weight of the wood. The moisture content of wood can be affected by a number of factors, including:

* The species of wood
* The age of the wood
* The environment in which the wood is stored

**What Should the Moisture Content of Wood Be Before Painting?**

The ideal moisture content of wood before painting is between 6% and 12%. If the moisture content is too high, the paint may not adhere properly and may be more likely to peel or flake. If the moisture content is too low, the wood may shrink and crack, which can also cause the paint to fail.

**How to Check the Moisture Content of Wood**

There are a number of different ways to check the moisture content of wood. One common method is to use a moisture meter. Moisture meters are available at most hardware stores.

To use a moisture meter, simply insert the probes into the wood. The moisture meter will then display the moisture content of the wood.

**Precautions**

* It is important to remember that moisture mapping is only an estimate of the moisture content of wood. To get a more accurate reading, it is best to test the moisture content of the wood in several different places.
* It is also important to take the temperature of the wood into account when measuring the moisture content. The moisture content of wood can vary depending on the temperature.
* If you are unsure about the moisture content of wood, it is always best to err on the side of caution and wait until the wood is completely dry before painting.