Understand These Wood Science Basics for Better Wood Floors

Brian Beakler Headshot
The long axis of most wood cells is oriented parallel with the tree length.
The long axis of most wood cells is oriented parallel with the tree length.
R.B. Hoadley

The science and physics associated with wood’s affinity for water are complex. While the science can be difficult to understand, knowing a few basic fundamentals can make wood’s performance in different environmental conditions predictable. By grasping a few key aspects, we can address moisture-related issues in wood flooring—and also become better installers.

Wood contains three primary components: cellulose (for strength), hemicellulose (for strengthening and growth) and lignin (for holding the cellular structure together). When evaluating wood dimensional change, cellulose plays a significant role. Cellulose is a long-chain carbon-based polymer oriented with its long axis parallel to the long axis of the wood cell. All chemically reactive sites for adsorbing water molecules are located laterally along the length of cellulose chains, making it a key player in wood’s dimensional response to moisture.

Log in to view the full article
Page 1 of 13
Next Page
Resource Book
Looking for a specific product or a company? Wood Floor Business has the only comprehensive database of the industry.
Learn More
Resource Book
Podcasts
All Things Wood Floor, created by Wood Floor Business magazine, talks to interesting wood flooring pros to share knowledge, stories and tips on everything to do with wood flooring, from installation, sanding and finishing to business management.
Learn More
Podcasts