Mold Remediation Certification Practice Exam

What moisture content (MC) is required for fungi to cause wood decay?

1. 30%

2. 20%

3. 10%

4. 15%

The correct answer is: 20%

Fungi require a specific moisture content in wood to initiate decay processes, and that threshold is generally accepted to be around 20%. At this moisture level, wood is sufficiently saturated to support the growth of decay fungi. These organisms thrive in environments where the moisture content exceeds this threshold, as water is crucial for their metabolic processes. When wood has a moisture content of 20% or higher, it becomes an ideal substrate for various types of fungi, leading to problems such as structural damage and compromised integrity of the wood. Moisture levels below this threshold typically do not support fungal growth effectively, rendering the wood less susceptible to decay. Therefore, understanding this moisture content threshold is essential for mold remediation and prevention strategies, ensuring that environments remain unsustainable for fungal growth.