Tools and Materials
Tools
Garden fork
Materials
Preparation
Before you understand how to use a
moisture meter, it is important to consider these factors.
Type of Moisture Meter
Choose the right type of
moisture meter. A pinless moisture meter is best for use on concrete and other
hard surfaces, a pin-type moisture meter for use on wood or drywall and soil
moisture meters for gardening.
For Broad Surfaces
Before using the
moisture meter, we will check the broad area filled with moisture using a
thermal imaging camera to measure the surface temperature. This will show the
area where the moisture has accumulated most.
The parts with more blue
shading contain moisture and water. This will make the work easier and you
won’t have to check the whole wall for moisture.
How to Use Moisture Meter: Step-by-Step Guide
Moisture meters can be
categorized into three types based on their use.
Clean the surface from
outside if it is wood, cement or any other hard surface, so that it doesn’t
affect the reading.
Pinless Moisture Meter
A pinless moisture meter will tell you how to read a moisture meter for cement and other hard surfaces
- First, use a thermal imaging camera to assess the areas you want to check for moisture.
- Then, place the moisture meter sensor on the surface and move it across the area; the moisture reading will appear on the screen.
- Continue using the moisture meter in areas where it shows moisture on the thermal camera.
Pin-Type Moisture Meter
This
type of moisture meter is for wood and dry walls.
- The first step will be the same as a pinless meter, that is, doing the thermal imaging. Since we have to pin the meter to different places repeatedly, it is an important step.
- Push the metal pins into the material. For wood, use the pins along the grain for accurate readings. For drywall, insert them perpendicular to the surface.
- Stabilize it to get a proper reading.
- If the area is large, divide it into sections and take the readings separately.
Soil Moisture Meter
This meter can be used for plants at home or in fields to maintain the moisture in the soil for proper plant growth. Here's how to use a moisture meter for plants.
- Before measuring with a meter, use a garden fork to loosen the soil so the meter can take readings properly.
- Gently insert the probe of the moisture meter until it reaches the plant’s roots. Do not push too hard or it will damage both the meter and roots.
- Stabilize the meter and note down the reading. Take multiple readings for the same plant in different places to make sure the reading is correct.
Moisture Level Table
Here are generic
moisture readings for different types of material. You can use this table to
refer to while you are taking the reading.
Best Practices
Here are some of the things you can do while you learn how to use a moisture meter for better results.
- Make sure to calibrate your moisture meter regularly to get an accurate reading.
- Consider the weather while taking the reading. If it is humid, the readings will be high, so it would be wise to take the reading in sunny weather.
- Set the setting to the type of material you are testing.
- Avoid nails, screws and other metal things as they can interfere with the reading.
FAQs
1) Can a Moisture Meter Detect Mold?
A moisture meter doesn’t detect mold but
identifies areas with high moisture levels where mold is likely to grow.
Regular moisture monitoring helps in the early detection and prevention of mold
growth.
2) How Much Does a Moisture Meter Cost?
The cost of a moisture meter varies widely
based on features and accuracy. Basic models start around $20–$50, while
high-precision meters for professional use can range from $100 to $300 or more.
3) Can a Moisture Meter Read Through the Tile?
Some advanced moisture meters can read through tile, particularly non-invasive models using radio frequency to detect moisture beneath hard surfaces. However, accuracy can vary depending on the tile's thickness and material.
4) What is the Best Moisture Meter for Firewood?
For firewood, a pin-style moisture meter is
often recommended, as it can penetrate the wood for accurate readings. Look for
models ranging from 6% to 40% moisture, ideal for testing firewood dryness.