Wood responds to changes in atmospheric conditions, swelling as it absorbs moisture under elevated humidity, and shrinking when surrounded by dry air. The affected wood, whether it is used for framing or applied as a finish, will move as it expands and contracts. Where the movement is constrained, or where the movement changes the members' geometry, the result may be damage. As the symptoms of hygroscopic movement may resemble damage from external forces, understanding wood shrinkage can aid in correctly diagnosing the underlying causes of building damage. This paper provides two examples of damage that results from wood shrinkage.
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