What is the main control method for wood decay?

Reducing the water content of the wood is the primary control method for preventing wood decay. Wood decay is caused by fungi that thrive in moist environments; therefore, controlling the moisture levels is crucial for inhibiting their growth. By lowering the water content, you create an inhospitable environment for decay-causing organisms, effectively protecting the wood from deterioration.

Increasing the moisture content, applying paint, or exposing the wood to sunlight do not effectively address the problem of wood decay. While painting can serve as a barrier and sunlight may help to dry out wood, these methods do not directly tackle the underlying issue of moisture content, which is essential in controlling and preventing wood decay.