Why should pieces of wood being joined together be kept in the same room for at least 24 hours before assembly?

Keeping pieces of wood being joined together in the same room for at least 24 hours before assembly is important because it allows the moisture content of the wood to equalize. Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it can absorb and lose moisture relative to the humidity of its environment. When different pieces of wood are taken from varying environments or have different moisture levels, they can react differently when they are joined together.

By allowing the wood to acclimate in the same environment, the moisture content becomes more uniform across the pieces. This reduces the likelihood of issues such as shrinkage, swelling, or warping after the pieces are joined, which can lead to structural problems or aesthetic defects in the finished product. Ensuring that the wood is at a similar moisture level before assembly helps maintain stability and integrity in the final construction.