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Guide to Common Mistakes to Avoid With Moisture Meters

Even with a vast knowledge of how to use moisture meters properly, there are still many common mistakes that can be made. Not following a standard set of guidelines and instructions when using moisture meters and taking readings can result in future problems at a later point in time. Avoiding the following mistakes when testing wood or other materials for moisture content ensures that many problems and unnecessary costs can be easily avoided.

1. Make Sure You Are Using the Right Moisture Meter for the Job

It sounds silly, but it can happen often. Many professionals have fallen into the habit of relying upon one type of moisture meter, yet many factors can affect readings in different situations. Different types of wood and other materials can yield vastly different readings, and knowledge of the material you will be testing beforehand will allow you to correctly choose the best moisture meter for the job. Some moisture meters, although capable of testing many different substrates, are designed specifically for wood testing, while other may be more ideal for testing concrete.

It is also important to know whether or not you will need a pin or pinless moisture meter. Pins can leave holes or visible damage—if someone is going to be unhappy about seeing unsightly holes in their walls or flooring, then you'll want to go with a noninvasive moisture meter. Additionally, proper calibration of the moisture meter for the material being tested is key to ensuring an accurate reading.

2. Check For Proper Calibration
As mentioned above, different materials require different calibration settings. Some moisture meters have automatic built-in calibration for different wood species and other substrates; other may need manual calibration. It is also wise to periodically test your moisture meter on a material with a steady level of moisture. This will help you to better determine if calibration settings are still correct or if they have somehow been altered or lost.

Other maintenance tips include keeping pins in great condition and replacing heavily used pins, so as to get more accurate results.

3. Don't Settle for Just a Few Readings
Many contractors, inspectors, and other professionals fall into the trap of relying upon just a few readings to gain a general determination of moisture levels throughout the complete area or material. This is unwise, as it can cause you to miss areas where leaks or water damage have occurred. Most moisture meters can deliver results very quickly, so it should not be too much of a hassle to be extra thorough and take additional readings.

4. Make Sure You Understand the Results
The key to understanding the results of a reading lies in understanding the particulars of the material being tested. Many moisture meters come with charts that can be consulted to provide you with accurate information relative to the readings and the substrate. A reading for one type of material may mean something completely different for another material, and different species of wood all have their own specifics and optimal moisture content levels.