A moisture meter, also known as a damp meter, is a portable instrument designed for measuring moisture levels in a range of materials including wood, concrete, brick, and plasterboard. Early detection of moisture or water damage is essential in the prevention of mould growth and structural damage, both of which are costly to repair and can be detrimental to health and safety.    At RS we offer a wide range of moisture meters and moisture analysers to suit a range of applications. We offer models from trusted brands like Protimeter, as well as Kern, FLIR, Testo, and our own brand RS PRO. To learn more and find advice on selecting the best type for your requirements, please see our moisture meters guide.

Early detection of moisture or water damage is essential. Meters help in the prevention of mould growth and structural damage, both are costly to repair and can be detrimental to health and safety.

There are two main categories of moisture metres, Pin type or Pin-less type. Both are hand held and have a screen on the front to display readings. Meters are available in a digital form with a backlit LCD display or alternatively an analogue version with a needle scale. As the meters work in slightly different ways, selecting the best one for the job at hand is dependent on the application and the environment.

Moisture Meter Types

Pin-type moisture meters works by measuring the amount of electrical resistance between two points. Pin moisture meters have a pair of sharp metal pins at the top of the device. Once the metal pins are inserted into the material a small amount of electrical current is passed between the two spikes. As we all know water or moisture is a good conductor, so the higher the moisture content the lower the resistance value. The measurement is converted into a % of MC (moisture content) within the material.

Pinless moisture meters works by detecting how waveforms are affected by the presence of moisture in a material. The non-destructive meter works best on a flat surface. Clever internal circuitry produces a signal that is sent out through a sensing area on the back of the device. The signal is emitted in the form of electromagnetic waves. The moisture content can be converted into a scalable format to provide a moisture content reading.

Applications

Moisture meters are used by professionals to test a range of materials: 

• Building Materials - Building Inspectors use damp meters to help them identify moisture damage in structures and building materials.
• Plaster - Moisture can be hidden behind plaster or plasterboard, the right meter can help detect these hidden damp zones
• Wood - Wood naturally has a high moisture content, once dried by air or a kiln, moisture meters are used ensure the material is dry enough to work with.
• Concrete - Being able to determine the best conditions for laying screed or concrete is crucial to prevent cracking and buckling.

Moisture Meters can help support a healthy building by improving Air Quality