Moisture Meter

Moisture Meter Buyers Guide

Dampproofing your home against moisture and water damage is a process that many homeowners undertake. The installation of a moisture meter is one step of this process.  This buyers guide will help you determine which moisture meter is best for your needs.

What is a moisture meter?

A moisture meter is a device used to measure the amount of water or moisture in a given material. 

Moisture meters are used to detect hidden water damage, such as in walls and ceilings, and determine relative humidity levels in a room. Too much moisture can cause mildew, wood rot, and metal corrosion. It can also lead to health problems from excessive humidity levels.

What To Look For In A Moisture Meter

When purchasing a moisture meter, you should consider the following factors:

1. Type of the moisture meter and accuracy

There are two main types of moisture meters: analogue and digital. While more accurate than digital meters, analogue meters are typically more expensive because they require electronic components to function properly, such as a display screen.  

Digital moisture meters are much cheaper than their analogue counterparts; however, their accuracy can be reduced by other factors such as heat or airflow near the meter. It is important to note that even though an analogue meter may produce inaccurate readings under certain circumstances, such as strong air currents, it will return accurate data for most other measurements.

2. Range of measured moisture

The range of moisture that a meter can measure is important to consider when making your purchase. Some meters only measure the moisture content in solid materials such as wood, while others can measure the moisture level in both solids and liquids.

3. Sensor type

The sensor type is another important consideration when purchasing a moisture meter. There are two main types of moisture sensors: pins and blades. Pins are inserted into the tested material, while blades are run across the surface. 

4. Method of reading results

Some meters will give you an analogue reading on a scale, while others will give you a digital reading in the percentage of moisture content.

5. Ease of use

Some meters are easier to use than others. Consider the size, shape, and weight of the meter before making your purchase. The meter should be easy to hold and operate with one hand.

How to use a moisture meter

Once you have purchased a moisture meter, it is important to know how to use it correctly. The following points will guide you to use the moisture meter effectively.

  •  Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. 
  • Test the meter on an inconspicuous spot before using it to measure water damage. This will allow you to check the calibration and ensure that the meter is working properly.
  • Measure the material’s moisture content at several different spots. Be sure to test both wet and dry areas of the material and its surfaces and edges. 
  • Compare your results to the manufacturer’s specifications for that particular type of material before deciding whether or not water damage exists in that area of your home.
  • Keep track of the results of each test, including which materials gave inaccurate readings so that you can replace those materials if necessary after construction has been completed on your property in order to prevent mould.

Main types of moisture meters

There are two main types of moisture sensors:

  • Pin needle
  • Sensor plate
  1. Pin needle

These meters are inserted into the material being tested while sensor plates are run across the surface.

Pin needle meters give an analogue reading on a scale, whereas sensor plate gives a digital moisture meter in percentage or moisture content.

Advantages of pin needle meters

  • They are more accurate than sensor plate meters.
  • They can measure the moisture content in both solids and liquids.

Disadvantages of pin needle meters

  • They are more expensive than sensor plates.
  • Strong air currents can damage them.

2. Sensor Plate

This type of meter is much cheaper than its analogue counterpart; however, its accuracy can be reduced by other factors such as heat or airflow near the meter. 

Sensor plate meters only measure the moisture content in solid materials such as wood. 

Advantages of Sensor Plate meters

  • They are less expensive than analogue meters.
  • They are less likely to be damaged by strong air currents than pin needle meters.

Disadvantages of Sensor Plate meters

  • They are less accurate than analogue meters.
  • They only measure moisture in solids.
  • Reasons you need a moisture meter.

Reasons why you need a moisture meter

There are many reasons why you might need to purchase a moisture meter. Some of those reasons include:

  1. You are a contractor and need to measure the moisture content in different types of materials in order to determine if water damage exists. 
  2. You are a homeowner who wants to check for water damage before purchasing a home.  
  3. You own a home and want to check for water damage after a flood in order to determine the extent of the damage and whether or not you need to rebuild part of your home. 
  4. You are replacing any materials that were damaged by water, including flooring, paint, drywall, etc., and want to test those materials before installation in order to prevent future problems such as mould growth.

How often should you use my moisture meter?

You will likely get the longest life out of your moisture meter if you only check it when making major decisions about your property or when leaks have been reported in your area. Checking a small amount every once in a while won’t do much harm, but it won’t allow you to catch potential problems before they become too severe. 

Moisture meter uses 

Moisture meters can be used in many different areas, such as:

  • Construction sites 
  • Areas damaged by floods 
  • Older homes with ageing walls and floors 
  • New homes where materials may still be drying out before installation 
  • Manufacturers who need to test their products before shipping them to clients helps clients avoid problems like mould growth. 
  • Contractors measure moisture content in flooring, carpet, windowsills, etc., after a flood or leak has occurred. 
  •  Individuals test different types of materials around their homes for water damage, including paint, wood flooring, or drywall.

Our best moisture meter reviews

Protimeter Mini General Purpose Moisture Meter
210 Customer Reviews
Protimeter Mini General Purpose Moisture Meter

Product description

The Protimeter Mini is a handheld, general-purpose moisture meter for measuring the moisture content of building materials, such as concrete, plaster, mortar and brick. It can be used to measure the moisture level in walls and floors before and during the installation of flooring or tiles. The meter also measures relative humidity and air temperature.

The Protimeter Mini has a three-point calibration for greater accuracy and an easy-to-read display with a backlight for low-light conditions. The meter includes a built-in tilt sensor that displays the incline angle for greater accuracy when taking measurements on inclined surfaces. It also has a data hold function to freeze the displayed reading. The meter comes with a soft case for easy transport and storage.

Main features

The following are the key selling points of this moisture meter:

  • You can use it to measure the moisture level in walls and floors before and during the installation of flooring or tiles.
  • It measures relative humidity and air temperature.
  • It is designed with a three-point calibration for greater accuracy.
  • It comes with a soft case for easy transport and storage.

Why we have chosen it

We have chosen to include this product in our list because it is useful for measuring the moisture level in walls and floors before and during the installation of flooring or tiles. The Protimeter Mini has a built-in tilt sensor that displays the incline angle for greater accuracy when taking measurements on inclined surfaces. It also has a data hold function to freeze the displayed reading. The meter comes with a soft case for easy transport and storage.

Read reviews

Most reviewers seem pleased with this moisture meter. Most say, it works great and is easy to use. Users noted that the product is well-built and provides accurate measurements. However, there are some who think that there are some features that need to be added or improved. Read all reviews unbiased to know whether this is your product or not.

Sale
Bosch moisture meter UniversalHumid (precise results thanks to wood group selection and LED traffic light for easy interpretation)
1,566 Customer Reviews
Bosch moisture meter UniversalHumid (precise results thanks to wood group selection and LED traffic light for easy interpretation)

Product description

Bosch presents the 603688000 Moisture Meter, a tool designed to help you select the right wood for your needs. With 12 language stickers and a cardboard box, it’s easy to choose the right wood group for your project. The moisture meter has a wide range of applications, from construction and carpentry to forestry and horticulture. With its precision sensor and humidity display, you can ensure that your wood is of the right moisture content before beginning your project. 

It offers fast measurements and is easy to use with simple controls and detailed instructions. It features a large LED, conveniently placed on the back of the device for quick viewing while measuring. The moisture meter has an automatic power-off function that will protect your battery life after 10 minutes of inactivity.  

Main features

 Key features include:

  • It has a wide range of applications.
  • The moisture meter offers fast measurements and easy controls.
  • It has a large LCD display on the back of the device for faster and easy reading.
  • It has an automatic power-off function.

Why we have chosen it

We chose the 603688000 Moisture Meter by Bosch because it offers a wide range of applications and easy controls for user-friendliness. It has a large LED display on the back of the device, making readings faster and easier than ever before. And to top it all off, this moisture meter has an automatic power-off function, so your battery won’t be wasted after 10 minutes of inactivity.

It is also convenient that the Moisture Meter comes with 12 language stickers, making it easy to choose the right wood group for your project.

Read reviews

Reviews will help you understand if your product is good or bad, based on what others have experienced. To help you understand if this Bosch Moisture Meter will be right for you, amazon has a reviews section that helps you read what previous buyers say about it. Reviews can be negative or positive. They will allow you to understand strengths and weaknesses to weigh out your options.

KLEIN TOOLS Pinless Moisture Meter for Non-Destructive Moisture Detection in Drywall, Wood, and Masonry; Detects up to 3/4-Inch Below Surface, Klein Tools ET140
4,495 Customer Reviews
KLEIN TOOLS Pinless Moisture Meter for Non-Destructive Moisture Detection in Drywall, Wood, and Masonry; Detects up to 3/4-Inch Below Surface, Klein Tools ET140

Product description

Now you can detect moisture damage without piercing the surface with a pin. The Klein Tools ET140 Pinless Meter is perfect for drywall, wood, and masonry. It detects moisture up to 2 cm below the surface so that you can get a more accurate reading. The large backlight LED display makes it easy to see the results, even in low light conditions. Plus, the Auto Power Off feature conserves battery power. Requires 2 AAA batteries (included). 

Whether you’re a contractor or homeowner, this meter is ideal for detecting moisture damage before it becomes a problem. 

Main features

The following are the key features of this product:

  • It will offer you easy viewing with its reverse-contrast display and large numbers.
  • It features a bright backlight for easy viewing.
  • It has three measurement modes to get the best results possible. It can measure wood, drywall, or masonry with ease.
  • It effectively detects moisture levels up to 2 cm below the surface.
  • It has an automatic power-off feature to save on battery life.
  • The meter comes with two AAA batteries and a user manual.

Why we have chosen it

The first thing we liked about this product was its easy-to-use design and features. The meter comes with a user manual that will walk you through measuring non-destructively, and it has an auto power-off feature that conserves battery life. It’s also built to last long, as it’s made from durable materials such as stainless steel and ABS plastic.

This affordable moisture meter has three different measurement modes: wood, drywall, and masonry; all you need to do is adjust the mode accordingly. You can easily detect moisture levels up to 2 cm below the surface with just one press of a button. With its large numbers and bright backlight display, this Klein Tools pinless moisture meter is the ideal choice for both professionals and homeowners. That’s why we believe you will love this product too.

Read reviews

Many online shoppers depend on reviews to make decisions on which product to buy.  Different buyers have different things to say about the potential product.  If this is your first time buying the Klein Tools Pinless Meter for Non-Destructive Moisture Detection ET140, you might be interested in what others say about it. 

STANLEY Moisture Meter with Two Detection Pins and LCD Screen Includes 4 x AAA Batteries 0-77-030
3,180 Customer Reviews
STANLEY Moisture Meter with Two Detection Pins and LCD Screen Includes 4 x AAA Batteries 0-77-030

Product description

The Stanley 077030 Moisture Meter is a handheld device used to measure the moisture levels in different materials. You can use it on wood, drywall, plaster, concrete, and other construction materials. The meter is easy to use; you have to insert the probe into the material and wait for a reading. The meter has a 0-100% range and features an LCD screen that displays the moisture level. It also has an automatic shut-off feature to conserve battery life.

When it comes to home improvement projects, it’s important to make sure that you’re using the right materials for the project that you’re working on. Using substandard materials may not be safe or efficient, but using them can also cause damage to your home, which will cost you money in the long run if you have to hire a professional to replace them. 

With this moisture meter, you’ll never have to worry about torn up walls or ceilings again because of faulty drywall or open cavities where bugs can enter. By testing your materials before they are used, you can prevent these situations from ever arising. You can even test finished projects made with sheetrock and other construction materials just before painting, etc. so that no problems arise after completing your project.

Main features

Below are the main features of this product:

  • The Stanley 077030 Moisture Meter is a handheld device that is used to measure the moisture levels in different materials.
  •  It can be used on wood, drywall, plaster, concrete and other construction materials.
  • The meter is easy to use; you have to insert the probe into the material and wait for a reading.
  • The meter has a 0-100% range and features an LCD screen that displays the moisture level.
  • It also has an automatic shut-off feature which conserves battery life.

Why we have chosen it

We have chosen this product because it is essential for any home improvement project. By ensuring that you are using the correct materials, you can avoid many common problems. This meter is easy to use and affordable, so it’s a great option for anyone DIY-ing their way through a home improvement project.

With this moisture meter, you’ll never have to worry about torn up walls or ceilings again because of faulty drywall or open cavities where bugs can enter. By testing your materials before they are used, you can prevent these situations from ever arising. You can even test finished projects made with sheetrock and other construction materials just before painting so that no problems arise after completing your project.

Read reviews

This product has attracted a lot of reviews, and the majority of them are positive. Many users report that this is a solid product and works well for what it’s designed to do: check moisture content in construction materials such as drywall, paint, wood etc. 

A user mentioned that one feature they like is that there’s no need to wait too long for a reading, which would defeat the purpose of getting an instant readout when you’re dealing with construction materials. Another point brought up by several reviews is how affordable this product is while still durable enough to last a while.

A few negative reviews complained about the device’s durability; however, many were written after a year or more since purchase, so their accuracy should be questioned. 

[Upgrade] Wood Moisture Meter, Dr.meter 2 in 1 Pin & Pinless Multifunctional Firewood/Wall/Building/Furniture Humidity Water Detector, Pin-Type & Scanner Wood Moisture Tester
2,161 Customer Reviews
[Upgrade] Wood Moisture Meter, Dr.meter 2 in 1 Pin & Pinless Multifunctional Firewood/Wall/Building/Furniture Humidity Water Detector, Pin-Type & Scanner Wood Moisture Tester

Product description

The upgraded Dr.meter moisture meter is a 2-in-1 multifunctional wood tester that can accurately and efficiently measure the moisture content in wood accurately and efficiently. It’s not only a pin-type wood moisture meter but also a scanner wood moisture meter with a backlit LCD display and low battery alarm to ensure you’ve got what you need at any point in time.

With it, you will no longer worry about cracks and other problems brought by a large amount of residual water in firewood, drywall, building materials, or even furniture after long-term storage! You can start enjoying your life without worrying about such annoying things. 

It has four different pinless scanning modes for different materials:

– Pinless for wood

– Pinless for drywall/sheetrock

– Digital pin-type wood moisture meter

– Scanners for nonwood materials

Main features

Below are the key selling areas of this moisture meter:

  • Fashionable and Useful Gifts: The Dr.meter multifunctional wood tester comes with a rubber case as a gift, which is very useful to protect it from being damaged by falls or bumps. In addition, the bright LCD screen makes it easy to read the reading even in dark places, making it an ideal choice as a gift for family members or friends who are DIY fans or work related to construction. 
  • Strong Compatibility: The upgraded Dr.meter moisture meter can be used on softwood and hardwood, LVL, and Plywood. 
  •  It is also compatible with all types of smartphones and tablets. 
  • Accurate and Easy to Use: With a measuring range of 0-99% and a resolution of 0.1%, the Dr.meter moisture meter ensures accurate moisture content readings every time. The intuitive user interface makes it easy to use, even for people with no previous experience with wood moisture meters.

Why we have chosen it

The Dr.meter moisture meter is an upgraded and multifunctional wood tester that is accurate, easy to use, and comes with a rubber case for protection. With four different scanning modes, it can be used on various materials, making it a versatile tool for anyone working in construction or DIY projects. 

The LCD screen is backlit and makes it easy to read the readings even in dark places, making this moisture meter ideal as a gift for friends or family members who are into DIY projects. And with a measuring range of 0-99% and a resolution of 0.1%, the Dr.meter moisture meter ensures accurate measurements every time. So if you’re looking for an accurate and easy-to-use moisture meter that comes with a rubber case and different scanning modes, this is the one for you.

Read reviews

When it comes to customers’ thoughts about this product, most have a lot of good things to say about it.  Many customers agree that this is an accurate meter, with many commenting on how impressed they were at how accurate the readings were. 

As one reviewer put it, “I wasn’t disappointed… It’s fast and easy to use.” Many people also liked that you can choose either reading mode depending on what material you’re testing. Notwithstanding, a few people complain about how this moisture meter doesn’t work with all types of wood or that the LCD screen is difficult to see in direct sunlight. 

However, these complaints are in the minority and don’t take away from this product’s overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Calculated Industries 7445 AccuMASTER Duo Pro Pin & Pinless Moisture Meter Detects Hidden Leaks and Moisture | Combo Non-invasive Pad + Pin Sensors | for Restoration Contractors, Woodworkers, DIYs
2,031 Customer Reviews
Calculated Industries 7445 AccuMASTER Duo Pro Pin & Pinless Moisture Meter Detects Hidden Leaks and Moisture | Combo Non-invasive Pad + Pin Sensors | for Restoration Contractors, Woodworkers, DIYs

Product description

Finally, a moisture meter can be used on the pin and non-invasive pad sensors. AccuMaster Duo Pro is your two-in-one solution for pinpointing hidden leaks plus moisture detection. Use the non-invasive sensors to locate hidden moisture behind walls or inside wood members, then switch over to the pins to verify the location of moisture through drilling. AccuMaster Duo Pro can save you time and money on your next project by making accurate readings fast and easy.

It guarantees accurate readings every time. Just insert either sensor into any wall or piece of woodwork to detect changes in humidity levels, which will indicate the presence of concealed water leaks or excessive humidity. No need for multiple tools because AccuMASTER Duo Pro has the accuracy of a pin and non-invasive sensors all in one convenient tool.

With AccuMASTER Duo Pro, you’ll save time and money because you won’t have to purchase multiple tools for hardwood flooring inspections or framing inspections. This moisture meter can do both jobs with no problem! AccuMASTER Duo Pro makes accurate humidity readings easy – even if you don’t know a ton about moisture meters.

Main features

The key features include:

  • Detection of water leaks and concealed moisture – AccuMASTER Duo Pro pin and non-invasive sensors make it easy to check wood members and walls for hidden water leaks and humidity.
  • Efficient moisture readings – AccuMASTER Duo Pro pin sensor makes pinpointing locations where moisture is present quick and easy.
  • Convenient design – This tool features one-button operation, auto shutoff, low battery indicator, rugged construction for durability, comfortable grip handle, as well as a free Training Guide to help you learn about leak detection.

Why we have chosen it

The Calculated Industries 7445 AccuMASTER Moisture Meter is a moisture meter that is perfect for restoration contractors, woodworkers, and DIYs. It is designed with pin and non-invasive pad sensors, making it easy to detect hidden leaks and moisture. This moisture meter also guarantees accurate readings because it is easy to use and saves time and money.

Read reviews

When you read reviews of this product, you will realise that most of them are positive, which indicate this is a quality product.  Read as many reviews as possible to make a better decision.

Conclusion

On the whole, moisture meters are a great investment for anyone with concerns about the level of moisture in their home. By simply reading the meter’s display, you can get a good idea of the amount of water in the air and take steps to address any issues.

Not all meters are created equal, however, so it’s important to do your research before you buy. Be sure to consider the most important features to you, as well as the size and portability of the meter.

With these considerations in mind, we hope you’re able to find the perfect moisture meter for your needs.

About Mat

A complete novice trying to navigate in the world of DIY. I bought my first home about 2 years ago & ever since I've been trying to research & learn how best to tackle common household problems.

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