It's All Relative: Proper Job Site Conditions

As temperatures and humidity levels rise, it is more important then ever to ensure all wood products are properly handled in the field, including acclimation, finishing and installation. Architectural millwork, is indeed, much like fine furniture. If the indoor relative humidity is not controlled on the job site there is a chance that the owner will encounter wood movement throughout the life cycle of the project. 

Here are several key factors to take into consideration for the successful installation and finishing of a millwork trim and door package:

• The job site should be fully enclosed and protected from the elements.
• HVAC must be up and running with the temperature maintained between 68 – 72 degrees.
• Relative humidity should be between 25 – 55% (see chart below)
• Allow products to acclimate for at least  3 – 5 days prior to installation.
• Make sure all “wet work” has been completed before delivering wood products to the job.
• Never store material in areas with newly poured concrete, or in rooms that have been recently dry walled or plastered.
• Surface doors must be properly sealed, including the top and bottom, to prevent warranty against warp & twist from being void.
• Never start and stop the finishing process. It is crucial that it is completely sealed.
• Never install a pocket door prior to finishing, The average moisture content of framing material is 15-19%. Once a pocket door is pushed back unfinished, it will absorb the framing moisture causing it to bow and/or warp.

​Additional resources to help you plan accordingly
Moisture Meters ​
Humidity Forecast