Naturally, moisture exists in various material types and industries. These materials contain a certain amount of moisture that is an essential part of their makeup. Wood, concrete, sheetrock, paper. However, the moisture can cause significant potential problems, from flooring failures to inventory product losses to professional liability problems, left unmonitored.
An accurate moisture metre helps you to calculate and track the products used for their acceptable moisture content (MC) levels in your business or hobby application. It is just as vital to have the right instrument for the job as to consider the underlying costs of not calculating the MC of the content. We want you to find the right tool here at The Best Moisture Meter Experts so that excessive moisture doesn’t catch you accidentally. In order to help you find and use the right form of moisture metre for your application, we provide guides, expert reviews, comparisons, tools and products.
A moisture metre is a required tool in their arsenal for home and building inspectors to check the condition of a home. Similarly, during DIY ventures, you can use a moisture metre to ensure that your home is moisture-free, or to ensure material quality. If you have too much moisture or need a humidifier, a moisture metre can help you decide. Based on accuracy, ease of use, and overall effectiveness, the items below reflect some of the best moisture meters in their respective categories for DIYers, along with a pro choice for anyone wanting professional-level functionality.
What Is A Moisture Meter?
Moisture metres can allow you to determine the moisture levels in a given location and can allow you to detect signs of a leak. We will clarify what a moisture metre is, what it does, what it is used for and who will use a moisture metre for this portion. A moisture metre is a system used in a building to determine the levels of moisture present. They are also used for the calculation of wall moisture levels. Moisture metres can operate either as metres of conductivity or as metres of capacitance.
As a way to measure the amount of humidity, a conductivity humidity metre looks at the electrical resistance to its electrical circuit. A conductive plate is held by a capacitance moisture metre and the metre then calculates the fringe capacitance in the sensor to determine how much moisture in the wall remains. Moisture metres are also used to detect problems and any structural damage that may have occurred from a moisture build-up.
Why Do You Even Need a Moisture Meter
The tremendous importance of a moisture metre can be ignored by a woodworker who is on a low budget. Moisture metres can be very costly, as you all know, even though they’re not as impressive as expanding your set of tools. They are pretty important, even if they are not as cool as a saw, since they will let you know if the wood you are using is stable for use. As an insurance policy, you should think of a metre. All you have to do is have it once, and then you’ll have a lifetime of understanding what condition the wood you’re using is in.
This method helps you to understand how dry or wet the surface of a piece of wood is. The optimal level of saturation, which is undetectable with the naked eye, is about five to ten percent. Anything above or below these thresholds means that you can’t use the wood, and it can also find out that you don’t store your wood the correct way.
More literally, you won’t have to think about wasting your time with a moisture metre by dealing with lumber that’s unfit. It can also save you a lot of cash in the future by supplying you with some vital knowledge about the condition in which your lumber is stored.
For example, if you find out that the moisture levels in most of your stock are high, you will know that the way you store your lumber needs to change. You have to invest in a metre to make woodworking a little simpler, which is an easy move for a major assist.
Buying Guide For Best Moisture Meter
Types of Moisture Meters
- Pin – The two metal prongs, or pins, which emerge from the top of the metre like antennas, get their name from pin moisture metres. It is these pins that calculate the percentage of moisture. It is important to match the pins with a spot on the material using a pin moisture metre, and then force them so they reach the material. You can operate the moisture metre with a control pad once the pins are inserted to transmit an electrical signal down to one pin. On its way to the other pin, this signal passes through the material. This signal is used by the moisture metre to test the resistance of the material to electric current, which can help determine its moisture content. This measurement method is considered intrusive because to obtain a result, it involves puncturing the object. However, the only type that can help determine the exact position of moisture is pin moisture metres.
- Pinless – Pinless moisture metres do not penetrate the material to get a reading, so named for their lack of measuring pins. Instead, a plate lies flat against the material on the back of the metre and a high-frequency pulse passes through it. The signal varies according to the capacity of the material to store an electrical charge, allowing the moisture metre to detect the amount of moisture in the product. When testing drywall, the principal advantage of pinless moisture metres becomes apparent. It will easily turn into Swiss cheese if you have to drive holes into the drywall to detect moisture. Without damaging the drywall, a pinless moisture metre will check for moisture several times. While pinless moisture metres are less invasive than pinless moisture metres, their readings display moisture rather than a particular spot in a general field. Multifunctional moisture metres are a good choice for daily moisture detection. Initially, multifunctional moisture metres use both measurement methods for non-invasive, generalised moisture detection and reliable moisture detection if a problem is detected.
Durability
In any electronic system or product consisting of multiple components, the durability aspect is crucial. The best moisture metres consist of both inside and outside high-grade components and last for years.
Display
One of the most important things to look at prior to purchase is the display on a moisture metre. The bigger your show, the better. HD, LCD, and LED screens tend to come with the best moisture metres.
Battery Life
Battery life is a big factor to be mindful of when searching for the best moisture metre, as with all electronics. Similarly, before buying a moisture metre, make sure that you know what kind of batteries or charger is required.
Accuracy
As one of the most critical factors in determining which one to buy, DIYers and pros are searching for a moisture metre position accuracy. For measuring moisture, a device lacking in accuracy is practically useless. Not all units advertise the same precision score, however.
To within 0.1 percent, high-quality moisture metres should be accurate, but these high-end models will cost a lot. Some moisture metres are accurate to within 5 percent for a less-expensive alternative. For the average DIYer, this still represents a fair accuracy rating, but it is better to stick to the high-end models if a project or specialist needs a more accurate measurement. Investing in a moisture metre that has more than a 5 percent difference in its precision is not advisable.
The readings of all moisture metres are shown as a percentage of moisture content ( percent MC). A moisture metre is usually calibrated for use with wood and has a scale of between 5% (dry) and 40% (saturated). The calculation of non wood materials such as concrete uses a relative scale from 0 (dry) to 100 (saturated).
Moisture metres for gypsum or drywall use provide a third scale ranging from 0.2% (dry) to 50 percent (dry) (saturated). Determine the precision levels you need and the material you would want to review before deciding on a moisture metre.
Longevity
The consistency of a product is vital to everyone who frequently uses their moisture metre on job sites. Even a newer model with the best features can withstand being driven into a wall or bumped into a tool box by its sticks. The features a DIYer needs should be included in the moisture metre, but it also has a reputation for longevity and long life.
Consider options that include a rubberized case, a heavy-duty build, or built-in shock resistance. Without injury, these moisture metres will withstand a few falls and make a great investment because they will need to be replaced less often.
Ease of Use
Choose a relatively simple-to-use moisture metre. Complicated humidity metres take much longer than a simpler design, which can lead to unreliable and inconsistent readings that could result in harm to undetected humidity. Instead, opt for a moisture metre that displays the details you need with an easy-to-read, backlit, digital display.
Users should be able to easily navigate between the device’s menus and quickly switch between features. It is much simpler to use pinless moisture metres than pin moisture metres, but the trade-off is in pinpoint precision.
Range of Measurement
The measurement range a moisture metre provides is determined by the minimum and maximum percentages of moisture it can read. The larger the measurement range, the less reliable the system can measure, with some moisture metres providing a range as wide as 0.2-60 percent.
Smaller, more accurate scales offer more precise measurement and also come in metres used to ensure the maximum percentage of humidity in the flooring and fine carpentry industry. Many DIYers, however, will benefit more from a wider variety of scales so that they can use the same metre for multiple applications.
Additional Features
Moisture metres will pack plenty of extra features, like most electronic devices, to make the process easier. A temperature display that can track a hot or cold leak of water is one of these characteristics. The source can be found following changes in temperature. Memory functions that can keep track of previous readings instead of having to write them down or recall them, audible warnings for reading the moisture level, and a carrying case for protecting the moisture metre are other features
Best Moisture Meter
1.Klein Tools ET140 Pinless Moisture Meter
Features:
- Power Source – Battery Powered
- Batteries – 1 9V batteries required. (included)
- Material – ABS Plastic
- Display Style – Bright Reverse-Contrast Display and a Nine LED Bar Graph
- Battery Cell Type – Alkaline
- Description Pile – 1 x 9V
- Warranty Description – 1 year manufacturer
Klein Tools’ pinless moisture meter is made of high-quality, professional-grade materials that not only increase the meter’s reliability, but also improve its accuracy and precision. This system can detect concealed moisture content in any wooden surface up to three by four inches below the surface, and it does so without causing damage to the material.
It also helps you to verify the moisture content of a number of materials other than wood. To choose between softwood, hardwood, masonry, or drywall, simply press the mode button.
The software includes an LED bar graph and a reverse contrast monitor that is bright enough to be used in the dark. It also has nine led bars that indicate the moisture range in the material. The unit checks the moisture content using electromagnetic field technology, which is very reliable and precise.
2. Protimeter BLD5365 Surveymaster
Features:
- tem Weight – 1.52 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 7.5 x 2.75 x 1.9 inches
- Material – Plastic
- Power Source – Corded electric
- Battery Cell Type – Alkaline
- Rugged construction
- Large backlit display
- Pin moisture measurement
- Pinless Non-invasive measurement up to ‘ (20mm) below the surface
The dual-function moisture meter allows you to check moisture both with pins and non-invasively. It’s an ergonomically built system that can be used with only one hand to measure moisture in hard-to-reach areas, as well as structures both below and above the surface.
This method is particularly useful for detecting moisture-related problems in homes and buildings. It has a tough design that means it can work admirably for years to come, even if it is subjected to harsh conditions.
It also has a big backlit display that makes it simple to use the meter even in low-light conditions. This system can be used for a number of materials other than wood, such as concrete and drywall. This device’s pinless, noninvasive measurement feature provides accurate results up to 20 mm beneath the surface, while the pin function provides accurate readings from much deeper.
3. AccuMASTER Duo Pro Moisture-Meter
Features:
- Item Weight – 8.1 ounces
- Product Dimensions – 6 x 2.5 x 1 inches
- Batteries – 1 9V batteries required. (included)
- Style – Dual Pin+Pinless, Backlit LCD
- Battery Cell Type – Alkaline
- Warranty Description – One year warranty
Calculated Industries’ premium moisture meter gives you the ability to test moisture content not only reliably, but also easily. Not only that, but this is a multipurpose tool that can be used as a pinless sensor as well as a pin.
When you want to test in a wider area easily without compromising the material, use the pinless feature, and when you want to reliably test in the material at various depths, use the pinned feature.
This meter can be used to verify the moisture content of wood and hardwoods, as well as asphalt, carpets, paint, bricks, and drywall. Its noninvasive pinless scanning feature may also be used to check for moisture behind walls or underneath the floor.
It has a big backlit display that is easy to read, and the meter’s body is also very robust and sturdy. The meter’s average error rate was only 3%, and it comes with a power-saving auto shutoff feature, a protective cap, and a 9-volt battery.
4. Dr Meter Wood Moisture-Meter
Features:
- Product Type – Pinless type
- Accuracy : +/-0.5%
- Usage Softwood, hardwood, firewood
- Battery Cell Type – Alkaline
- Max. error: 1%Rh+0.5
- Resolution: 0.5%
- Environment temperature -10 ~ 60 ºC
- Humidity: 0 ~70%RH
- Power supply: 3 x 1.5V AAA battery
- Weight: 95g (not including batteries)
- Size: 132 x 67 x 26 mm
This pinless moisture meter is ideal for projects where precise readings are needed without destroying an expensive item or piece of furniture. The meter checks moisture readings using electromagnetic waves, saving you the trouble of drilling holes or washing up afterwards.
You can also select between different types of woods whose moisture you want to test, since the unit has ten different types of timber density to choose from, ranging from 4% to 80%.
While the system states that the error in moisture content readings is just 0.5 to 1%, be aware that it may sometimes be higher. It also has a temperature compensation function, which improves the precision and accuracy of the readings.
The meter has an intelligent auto off feature that switches it off after five minutes of inactivity. If there is ATC overrunning, temperature calibration, or nil calibration, the system can notify you.
5. SAM-PRO Dual Moisture Meter 2.0
Features:
- Pin-Type 2.0
- Material – ABS
- Large easy-to-read color LCD screen
- Includes MAX, MIN, SCAN, & Hold functions
- 4 Material Type Modes
- High/ Low Moisture Reading Bar
- Durable Nylon Case
- Set of Replacement Probes
- Batteries Included
The SAM pro dual moisture meter has the distinct benefit of being both versatile and performance-oriented, all while not burning a hole in your wallet. It has a built-in air temperature sensor and can read the moisture content of more than 100 different types of materials, making it even more convenient.
Other features of the moisture meter are crammed into its small shell. For example, it has a large, easy-to-read color LCD screen as well as an LCD flashlight feature, making it simple to use even in the dark.
It also has a high and low moisture reading bar that indicates if the moisture content is between 5% and 11%, 12 to 15%, or 16 to 50%. It’s a pin-type moisture meter, which means you’ll have to stick the probes into the material to determine its moisture content.
The good news is that it includes replacement probes, as well as a sturdy nylon case and batteries. Hardwoods, softwoods, drywall, concrete, and other materials can all be tested for moisture with this meter.
6. TACKLife Moisture Meter
Features:
- Moisture measurement
- Ambient temperature measurement
- Electrode pins: Integrated
- Large LCD display
- Measuring range: According to different material to select different mode
- High accuracy and fast reaction
- Data hold function
- Display with signs and units for easy reading
- Low battery indication function
- Temperature active compensation function
- Auto power shut off in 10 minutes without any operation
This is a fantastic moisture meter with a 2 percent accuracy range that can provide extremely accurate measurements. Furthermore, the meter is compatible with seven different types of wood and construction materials.
The meter also has a backlit LCD display that allows you to see measurements even in the dark. There’s even a built-in flashlight, which makes using this gadget even more convenient. There are also dedicated button switches for switching between temperature units.
It’s also a very inexpensive product, particularly when you consider all of the useful features it includes. However, it does have some disadvantages, such as the lack of an audible alert or a broader variety of testable materials.
7. General Tools MMD4E Digital Moisture Meter
Features:
- Measurement ranges: 5 to 50%WME (Wood Moisture Equivalent) for wood, 1.5 to 33% for building materials
- Moisture measurement accuracy/resolution: ±3%/0.1%
- Pin length: 0.3 in. (8mm)
- Wood moisture scales: 5 to 11.9% (low); 12 to 15.9% (medium); 16 to 50% (high)
- Building materials scales: 1.5 to 16.9% (low); 17 to 19.9% (medium); 20 to 33% (high)
- Display size and type: 99.9 count backlit LCD with 0.3 in. (8mm) high digits
- Auto power off: After 3 minutes of inactivity
- Dimensions: 6.0 x 2.6 x 0.8 in. (152 x 66 x 20 mm)
- Weight: 3 oz. (86g)
- Power source: “9V” battery (included)
The General Tools MMD4E moisture meter is ideal for those who don’t need precise readings and can make do with estimates or ballpark figures. Furthermore, this is a very inexpensive model, even if precise readings are not a top priority for you, you can save a lot of money with this meter.
The product also has a drywall measuring function, which you can use to check the moisture level of your sub-flooring. These two features are not found in any other kind of moisture meter.
A clear, easy-to-read display is also included with the package. However, as previously mentioned, there is a 3-percentage-point margin of error for this model. This could be perfect for certain projects, but if you are building wood flooring and the meter reads 10% water but the actual reading is 13%, you might end up with a catastrophe.
As a result, this model is only recommended if you do not need extreme precision.
8. Lignomat Moisture Meter
Features:
- Measuring Range 6-45%
- Built in calibration
- Calibration for domestic species
- Measuring depth of 3/16″ and 7/16″
- Batteries – 1 9V batteries required. (included)
- Material – Plastic
The Lignomat Mini Ligno is the best pin-type moisture meter on the market. It is not as reliable as the top contender on this list, but it is significantly less costly. As a result, if you’re looking for a decent meter that won’t break the bank, this is the one to use.
In comparison to the previous tool, this one provides a wider variety of measurement options. This moisture meter can calculate moisture content from 6% to 45 percent in 0.1 percent increments, making it incredibly precise and reliable.
Since this is a pin-type moisture meter, you’ll need to insert pins into the wood to get a reading. It comes with 3 by 16 inch and 7 by 16 inch pins, giving you plenty of space to work with different thicknesses of wood. This meter, however, cannot be used to measure exotic woods.
Another significant drawback of this moisture meter is that it leaves small holes in the wood piece after use.
9. Wagner Meters Orion 910 Deep Depth Pinless Wood Moisture Meter Kit
Features:
- Paired On-Demand Calibrator
- Rubber Protective Boot
- Foam-lined ABS Plastic Carrying Case
- 9V Battery
- Species Settings Booklet
- Instruction Manual
- Common Flooring Materials
The Wagner Orion is an excellent choice for those who value accuracy above all else. Despite the fact that this is an old model with no changes in many years, the meter still works well and beautifully. It’s a contactless meter, which means you can use it to check the moisture content of wood without having to pierce it with pins. All you have to do now is set the meter on the wood and wait for it to do its job.
Frequently Asked Question
Yeah, all the best moisture metres on our list provide precise measurements of the moisture content of wood and building materials. Depending on the model and the content in question, their accuracy varies from +/- .2 per cent to +/- 3 percent. Wood has a moisture content that is more natural than drywall.
It relies on the wood form and its purpose. Ideally, you need less than 12 percent moisture content for firewood. Up to 15 percent is acceptable for fresh cut pine and spruce. For drywall, on the other hand, something above about 1% suggests an issue that could weaken the structure.
A pinless moisture metre can provide consistent results until correctly calibrated and can potentially provide a more accurate reading in certain instances.
Turn it on and pick the mode you want if you have a pin-type moisture metre. Then drive the pins at a perpendicular angle into the surface and take the reading. Simply switch it on with a pinless metre and put the sensors on top of the material to get a reading.
There is no “Mold” environment for even the best moisture detector, but it may distinguish pockets of moisture that could contain mould spores.
Most humidity metres, such as between 32 degrees and 104 degrees fahrenheit, operate within a specified temperature range. You can use them both indoors and outdoors; just make sure the battery is not poor, because it works best.
A reading of 5-12 percent is usually ideal, but a typical reading on a moisture metre depends on the content, with drier ones such as drywall requiring lower moisture readings of about 5-7 percent, and damp materials such as wall studs having reasonable moisture levels of up to 12 percent.
First, ensure that the metre is calibrated to correctly determine moisture in the material in order to use a moisture metre on the drywall. The results would be imprecise if the metre is not calibrated. Usually operate the moisture metre as per product instructions once the metre is calibrated to test drywall. To get an accurate reading of the whole wall, insert pin metres in several different places into the drywall. Similarly, for a full range of its moisture content, a pinless metre can search several sites on the wall. A reading of 5 percent to 7 percent is ideal for drywall.
Conclusion
You have plenty of choices to choose from, as you already know. Now that we’ve provided you with details on everything you can understand about the best moisture metres, it should be easy to select. Only keep in mind, you need to make up your mind about where and when you are going to use it before buying a moisture metre. Also, make sure to do your business research.
It is necessary to calculate the moisture content for both professional and personal use when using solid materials like concrete or wood. But it is important to find the right instrument, so to make an educated decision, you should weigh out the pros and cons. We hope it has helped you find a moisture metre that fits your tastes now that we’ve come to the end of our guide.
