Which of the following is a primary outcome of high moisture levels in wood?

High moisture levels in wood create a conducive environment for microbial growth, such as fungi and bacteria, which lead to accelerated decay. Wood is a natural material that can absorb moisture, and when it retains too much water, it weakens its structural integrity and overall durability. This decay not only reduces the wood's lifespan but also negatively impacts the effectiveness of preservation treatments. Preservation methods typically work best when the wood is dry, as moisture can hinder the penetration and adherence of preservatives. Thus, high moisture levels ultimately result in reduced preservation effectiveness, making the selection of this option accurate.