Moisture meters, also known as moisture detectors, are instruments that determine the quantity of water present in a given material sample. These devices measure the moisture on the material’s surface as well as the material’s overall moisture content. The user is able to determine, through the use of this measurement, if the moisture levels are suitable or whether there is a need for adjustments to be made.
In example, home inspectors may be particularly interested in determining the levels of moisture because of the potential for damage that is connected with dampness. Craftsmen who make furniture and are concerned with producing the highest possible quality product may find an alternative purpose for it.
The majority of modern moisture meters make use of digital displays, which make it possible to obtain readings in a relatively short amount of time. The reading may indicate whether or not there is a significant deviation in the moisture level in comparison to a limit that has been predefined.
The following are some examples of the types of materials that may be evaluated with the use of moisture meters:
- Wood
- Concrete
- Drywall
- Paper
Because an excessive amount of moisture might cause the material to deteriorate, it is essential to get meter reading as well as meter accuracy.
Moisture meters are essential tools for professionals who work in fields, such as property maintenance, the production of wood fuel, as well as the installation of stoves, to mention just a few of the more common uses. Moisture meters also have the capability of determining the relative humidity of the air in the immediate vicinity.
Moisture Meter Types
Pin type meter or pin moisture meter as well as pinless moisture meters are the two most common varieties of this meter reading instrument. These various kinds of testing equipment are individually appropriate for particular uses and are customized to the specifications that the user requires in order to determine the amount of moisture content.
Pin type moisture meter
Pin-type moisture meters are portable and feature anywhere from two to four small steel probes that may be placed into the material to accurately measure the amount of moisture present.
The method of material probing is followed by the circulation of current between two places, and the amount of resistance is then translated into a value that represents the percentage of moisture that is present in the material.
The pin type of moisture meter, as opposed to the pinless moisture meter, is capable of providing moisture meter readings that span a wider depth range. The most common application for these meters is to assess the amount of moisture present in substances, like wood and concrete as well as plaster and plasterboard.
Pinless moisture meter
A sensor pad is featured on the pinless moisture meter, also known as the non-damaging meter. When in touch with the material, this pad sends out an electromagnetic signal that can be used to determine the amount of moisture present in the substance.
The changes in wave movement data are analyzed by these moisture meters in order to determine the amount of moisture that is currently present. The procedure for taking the measurement does not call for the material to be pierced or broken in any way.
There are a variety of pinless types available, and each one offers the capability of reading moisture levels up to a depth of 0.75 to 1.5 inches.
The Function Of Moisture Meters
As was said earlier, moisture meters work by measuring the amount of electrical resistance that exists between two locations that have previously been established. Moisture meters of the pin type, on the other hand, are only able to calculate the moisture content (MC) of the region that is between the fixed point and the two pins.
When utilizing a pin-type meter, it is necessary to take multiple readings in order to determine the MC. On the other hand, a pinless moisture meter sends out an electromagnetic signal that enables the evaluation of a larger portion of the material being tested.
Moisture meters for wood (Wood moisture meter)
Moisture meters are able to provide an estimate of the amount of moisture that is present in wood that is extremely accurate. In spite of this, there will be some variation in the outcomes due to the fact that the quality and brand of the moisture meter that was used made a distinction.
The degree of precision can be determined with the help of a test called the oven-dry test. This test involves weighing a piece of wood both before and after it has been subjected to a cycle of oven drying.
A moisture meter of sufficient quality will provide consistently reliable moisture readings. It can be utilized for a wide number of environmental measurement applications, including the evaluation of the moisture content of a variety of objects, such as wooden furniture and timber frames.
Moisture meters for caravans
Most people who own caravans are concerned about the amount of wetness that can be found inside. This is because it is common knowledge that the sealant that is used in the building of caravans can deteriorate over time, enabling moisture to enter.
Moisture meters, on the other hand, come in a wide variety and can be used to monitor the levels of moisture and detect the percentage of moisture content that is present in various parts of the caravan.
You ought to be aware that a moisture reading ranging from 0 to 15% is very normal and should not raise any red flags for you. However, values of moisture that are greater than 15% suggest the requirement for additional inspection.
If the levels are between 25 and 30 percent, this suggests that there may be water infiltration, which indicates that remediation may be necessary. It is also important to keep in mind that the measurements of the moisture content will be influenced by the ambient circumstances, with higher amounts of moisture being expected on days when it has been raining.
Moisture meters for soil (Soil moisture meter)
A portable soil moisture meter is designed specifically for the purpose of determining the levels of moisture present in compost, vegetation, and soil. Gardeners, farmers, as well as other specialists in the field of conservation frequently use meters of this type to ensure that the surrounding environment is optimal for the cultivation of plants, flowers, and crops.
It is recommended to take moisture readings in a few different spots around the vegetation to confirm that the results are accurate across the board.
In addition to that, you may calibrate irrigation systems with this kind of meter, as well as evaluate the nature of the soil, determining if it is compacted or loose.
Plants’ moisture-level measuring devices
It is very essential to provide the required quantity of water to both indoor and outdoor plants on a consistent basis. A plant moisture meter can be used to monitor the dampness of soil, which can then indicate whether or not additional watering is required.
Moisture meters that can tell whether the soil is wet, damp, or dry at the root level are typically considered as the most effective choice for big potted plants.
There is a wide selection of easily accessible and reasonably priced moisture meters on the market now that can be used to determine the amount of moisture that is present in the soil of houseplants.
To accurately measure the amount of moisture present in clay as well as other types of dense soil, one should get a meter that has a sturdy stem that is somewhat long.
Moisture meters for walls
In order to make an accurate determination of the amount of moisture contained within various kinds of walls, a variety of moisture meters can be utilized.
These portable gadgets show whether there are any signs of rising or penetrating moisture within the foundation walls, floors, or beams of a building. They can also be used to determine whether or not surfaces are dry enough to be tiled or papered over before the work is done.
Moisture meters for concrete
Moisture meters for concrete are particularly useful for determining the relative humidity of a wide range of materials used in the building and construction industries. In particular, they may be put to use for the purpose of evaluating the levels of moisture that are present in concrete floor coverings, slabs, beams, and other sorts of construction materials. This is one of the many applications for which they can be used.
A good number of these meters are resistant to impact and feature temperature correction that can be done automatically. In addition to that, spot checks can be performed in regard to specific points on a concrete slab.
How Does A Moisture Meter Really Measure Moisture?
Moisture meters are pieces of equipment that can ascertain the total quantity of moisture that is contained in a broad range of different types of materials. Analog measurements are provided by some moisture meters, whereas digital values are provided by others.
Commonly found on moisture meters are color indicators that light up in response to the detection of varying levels of moisture. The green light signifies low amounts of moisture, the yellow light indicates moderate levels of moisture, and the red light indicates significant levels of moisture.
As was indicated earlier, there is the option to purchase moisture meters with or without pins. The pin-type moisture meter functions according to the resistance principle, which enables the measurement of the most fundamental aspect of the flow of electricity through a substance.
This kind of meter is able to differentiate between the surface and the ambient conditions of the material very accurately. The usage of a pin-type moisture meter, on the other hand, runs the risk of causing material damage.
The principle of electrical impedance is what drives the operation of the pinless or non-invasive moisture meter. It enables precise readings to be obtained without putting any strain on the material and without compromising its integrity.
How To Read A Moisture Meter?
Before taking any readings with the moisture meter, you need to first calibrate it so that the results you get are accurate.
The specific steps involved in calibrating a meter are going to seem different depending on the kind of meter that is being used. However, the vast majority of pinless meters can be calibrated by using a calibration block or kit that was designed specifically for that purpose.
After the device has been calibrated, the most efficient and accurate way to use a moisture meter will be dependent on the particular model of meter that you are utilizing at the time.
The following is a list of the actions that need to be taken in order to use a pin-type moisture meter:
- Step one: Adjust the setting on the moisture meter.
Get ready for the challenge by adjusting the setting on your moisture meter so that it is appropriate for the kind of material you will be monitoring.
- Step two: Position the moisture meter.
Put the pins of the moisture meter in such a position that they are perpendicular to the surface of the substrate, and then drive them as directly as possible into the substance.
- Step three: Do the reading.
First, jot down the reading, then make a note of it, indicating if the measurement is a percentage or a reference.
- Step four: Iterate the steps again.
When conducting wall assessments, it is important to take readings in a variety of locations across the material, concentrating primarily on high-risk regions, like the exterior of windows.
The following is a list of some of the applications that may be carried out using a pinless moisture meter:
- Step one: Make sure the surface is ready.
Remove any debris or water that may be standing from the surface.
- Step two: Use the meter.
While you are adding pressure to the surface, you should wait for the reading to become stable.
- Step three: Make a record of it.
Make a note of the readings for both the percentage value and the moisture content.
- Step four: Carry out the procedure once again.
It is possible to adjust where the meter is placed in order to acquire additional readings and form a more accurate picture of the total amount of moisture present.
What Does A Normal Moisture Level Look Like?
In most cases, the moisture content of the wood used for interior woodwork, such as furniture, cabinets, wooden items, and other forms of woodwork, must have a reading of between 6 and 8 percent.
On the other hand, this range might be extended to 10% in coastal areas with significant humidity or in other places that are located near major bodies of water.
A wood moisture value of between 6% and 9% is typically required for the production of wooden musical instruments, microphones, bowling pins, and other specialty goods made of wood.
When it comes to hardwood flooring, the moisture content is normally between 6% and 8%. When installing hardwood floors, it is important to examine both the polished hardwood and the wood subfloor for the amount of moisture they contain.
The moisture content of the hardwood flooring must be between 2% and 4% lower than the moisture level of the subfloor, but this range can vary depending on the width of the finished hardwood.
In general, the moisture content of framing timber, outside construction lumber, and furniture made from exterior lumber varies from 12 to 19 percent. Anything with a humidity level more than 19% is at risk of developing mold and deterioration.
Final Words
To avoid problems with mildew and rot, moisture meters are a great investment for any homeowner. Although these meters have a mixed reputation, when used properly and with proper calibration, they can provide reliable readings.
If you have any questions about how to use a moisture meter, how to clean up after a flood, a storm, or a fire, or if you need any general advice on an acceptable housekeeping routine, SolutionTales is always here to help.