Shrinkage – Floor Systems
Wood by nature expands and contracts in unison with its atmospheric environment. For most low level residential applications, this natural event is not a major cause of concern. For the Pacific Northwest and especially in a Midrise application though, moisture content of wood products at time of construction enclosure and its affects thereof, needs to be addressed: Lumber if left out exposed to rain will absorb moisture and cause the wood to “swell” the net cumulative effect if not properly addressed beforehand could result in a building consolidation of several inches if the building is designed using solid sawn floors in platform framing. This in turn could potentially cause cracking of the interior drywall and buckling of any continuous exterior finishing. However with proper consideration and pre-knowledge the outcome can be controlled.
