Green and dry lumber: compare conditions, not labels

Define what stays the same

A meaningful moisture comparison follows the same wood material. If the second quantity has been surfaced or cut, some dry material may also have been removed. A difference between two scale readings could reflect both water change and changed geometry. Record those operations before attributing the entire difference to drying.

Separate the initial mass and moisture basis from the target scenario. The target is an input, not a forecast. The calculator cannot establish whether the wood will reach that condition, how long it will take or whether it will be suitable for installation.

Worked example: a mass scenario

Suppose an illustrative 120 kg quantity is at 20% dry-basis moisture content. Its inferred dry mass is 120 ÷ 1.20 = 100 kg. At a hypothetical 10% target, the model gives 110 kg. The 10 kg difference is not 10% of the original 120 kg.

Both moisture values are assumptions in this example. A real record needs compatible measurement information. For mixed bundles with different starting conditions, calculate appropriate groups separately rather than applying one convenient label to the whole delivery.

Keep density and geometry consistent

Changing a density input while keeping the original dimensions may describe a different model from tracking the same piece through moisture change. The mass scenario intentionally avoids predicting volume change. Choose the model that matches the question, and do not combine the results as if they were independent corrections.

For a supplier inquiry, ask for information about the proposed shipping condition. A general species article can explain why moisture matters but cannot determine the mass of a particular pack.

Evidence & scope