Moisture mapping is the process of measuring the moisture content of a hardwood floor to identify areas of excessive moisture that could potentially damage the floor. Moisture maps are typically used to assess the moisture content of a floor prior to refinishing, as well as to troubleshoot moisture-related problems. ### Acceptable Moisture Levels The acceptable moisture content of a hardwood floor varies depending on the type of wood and the environmental conditions. Generally speaking, the moisture content of a hardwood floor should be between 6% and 9%. Moisture content that is too high or too low can cause the floor to buckle, cup, or crack. ### What is an Acceptable Moisture Reading in a Hardwood Floor? The acceptable moisture reading in a hardwood floor depends on the species of wood. The following table provides a guide to acceptable moisture readings for different types of wood: | Wood Species | Acceptable Moisture Content | |---|---| | Oak | 6-8% | | Maple | 6-8% | | Cherry | 6-8% | | Walnut | 6-8% | | Hickory | 6-8% | | Pine | 6-9% | | Fir | 6-9% | | Spruce | 6-9% |