Wood lexicon Betterwood technical terms

Swelling

The increase in the three dimensions and thus also the volume due to moisture absorption. Swelling is only possible below fiber saturation, i.e. below approx. 28 to 36% wood moisture. Accordingly, shrinkage of the wood occurs when the moisture content decreases. Swelling and shrinkage are repeated each time the material is remoistened or dried (see: Stamina).