Moisturing

In the world of concrete, moisture is essential because it influences the material’s strength, longevity, and general performance. To make sure your projects last the test of time, whether you’re a professional in the construction industry or a do-it-yourself enthusiast, you need to understand how moisture interacts with concrete.

We examine the various facets of moistening concrete in this article. We’ll examine the significance of preserving the proper moisture content throughout the curing process and its effects on the finished product. We cover everything from the science of hydration to useful advice on maintaining the moisture content of concrete.

Come along as we explore the significance of moisture in concrete and provide tips and strategies to help you get the most out of your building endeavors. You can’t afford to ignore the importance of proper moistening when building any kind of structure, no matter how big or small.

Factor	Description
Water Content	Proper water content helps concrete cure and gain strength. Too little water can cause cracks, while too much weakens the structure.
Moisture Retention	Keeping moisture in the concrete mix during curing prevents it from drying out too quickly, which is crucial for durability.
Temperature	Moisture levels should be monitored as temperature changes can cause water to evaporate or freeze, affecting the curing process.
Environment	Exposure to elements like wind and sun can speed up drying. Use coverings to maintain adequate moisture levels during curing.

What is this device?

One such metrological tool is the moisture meter, which is designed to quickly determine the proportion of water molecules in the structure of cut material, such as:

1. wood;
2. insulation;
3. concrete;
4. other structural elements.

This device is widely used in many industries, including construction, manufacturing, sales, and responsible storage of building materials.

Despite having similar functionality and working principles, a moisture meter and a hygrometer are not interchangeable terms, as many common people tend to think.

A moisture meter gives you the precise amount of moisture saturation of solid materials, independent of their structural features, chemical makeup, and mechanical and physical attributes. A hygrometer, on the other hand, measures the moisture content in the air and is known for its relatively low accuracy.

What does a moisture meter look like: photo

The look and layout of every moisture meter on the market are essentially the same. These devices fall into one of two categories based on their intended use.

Amateur devices

Qualities:

• They are a small device in a plastic or steel case with dimensions of 100 – 150 x 50 – 60 x 20 – 30 mm.
• At the bottom of the case there are two thin steel rods with pointed ends for immersion into the body of a solid object in order to analyze the percentage of moisture.
• On the front panel of the case there is an LCD display that displays all the calibration parameters of the device, as well as the results of humidity measurements.
• Under the display there are several moisture meter control keys – on and off, as well as switches for setting modes and displaying results.

Professional

Features:

• Consist of two parts – a probe in a protective case and the analyzer itself in a plastic casing.
• The dimensions of professional devices are 1.5 – 2.0 times more than amateur analogues.
• Two components of the device are interconnected using a low -current cable with a plug.
• Unlike amateur equipment, professional moisture meters work from a recharged battery, while cheaper analogues are driven from ordinary batteries.
• The multifunctional LCD display has a backlight, which allows you to experience it in the dark.
• Using professional equipment, you can fix the results of the measurement of humidity and transfer them to a PC or a mobile device for wireless communication.
• Professional devices are characterized by increased accuracy of measurements and give reliable results.

It should be noted that professional equipment is not at all necessary for the average consumer who needs to check the moisture content of wood before making a purchase; however, for construction contractors, business owners, and wholesale suppliers, a high-precision device is essential, as inaccurate information regarding the moisture content of the material can result in significant financial losses.

What it measures and what it is needed for?

The device’s intended use for measuring moisture in solid materials with a dense structure is evident from the name.

The method works by placing extremely sensitive steel probes in contact with the surface of concrete, wood, insulation, or other materials to measure the amount of water vapor present relative to the volume of the material structure.

The following significant objectives are met by the use of a device for measuring moisture in solid materials:

• Accurate determination of the moisture level in building structures and finishing materials.
• Determination of the degree of polymerization and strength gain of plaster mortars after application to walls, masonry adhesive compositions, concrete walls, ceilings, columns, pylons.
• Determining the suitability of wooden materials for installation in a log house, roof structures or other parts of buildings made of natural materials.
• Deciding on the need to dry materials before placing them in the structure.
• Analysis of the overall quality of the material structure, comparison with technical characteristics and quality certificate from the supplier to identify possible defects.
• Determining the degree of soil moisture at the construction site to assess the general floodability of the territory, the soil filtration coefficient, as well as to determine the level of groundwater.

Professional builders and landowners who have chosen to construct a private home but are concerned about the inadvertent use of subpar or improperly prepared materials for installation will find this device to be an invaluable help.

Scheme and design

The following number of primary and auxiliary components make up a typical household moisture meter and guarantee the accomplishment of its primary functions:

• Mechanical part, which consists of a handle and a key on it to start measuring the amount of moisture in a building structure or material.
• A sensor consisting of two straight needles up to 150 mm long and 2–4 mm in diameter, which are slightly immersed in the structure of the test material under pressure.
• An electronic part consisting of a converter of high-frequency ultrasonic action transmitted to the needles of the device into electrical oscillations to accurately determine the difference in density between the aqueous medium and the structure of the solid body.
• An actuator that reads the signal from the electronic unit and converts it into a set of numbers on the screen.
• A liquid crystal display that displays information from the actuator – in the form of the percentage of water vapor in the structure of the test material.
• Control unit, which allows you to change the user interface, turn on the indicator backlight, and also switch modes on a multifunctional moisture meter or adjust the accuracy of its measurements.
• Battery compartment on the back of the case, which contains the power supply. As a rule, products of the middle and high price category are equipped with a high-capacity battery, as well as a charger with a micro USB input, which is connected to the moisture meter to recharge after using the device.
• Wireless communication module with a computer, smartphone or other electronic device designed to process or store data based on measurement results.

Example scheme: Although moisture meters from different manufacturers have noticeable external variations, their internal filling is the same because all moisture meters are made to do the same tasks.

Technical specifications

Every moisture meter comes with a quality passport and a certificate of conformity to GOST and TU, which are used to measure the percentage of water vapor in a solid’s structure. The primary functional parameters and technical features of the moisture meter are outlined in this official document and vary within the following ranges:

• The minimum percentage of measured material moisture, from which you can start measuring – from 2% to 6%.
• The maximum percentage of moisture that can be measured using a household device – up to 40% – 50%, professional – up to 70% – 80%.
• The weight of the device – from 80 to 150 g for amateur equipment, from 300 – 400 g – for professional.
• A standard set of additional functions that most moisture meters are equipped with – automatic shutdown in standby mode, registration of minimum and maximum boundary parameters, the ability to adjust the materials being tested, battery charge level identifier, LCD display backlight, the ability to save an important measurement value.
• Division value, measurement accuracy – from 0.1% for amateur equipment, to 0.01% for professional moisture meters.
• Battery type – replaceable AA or AAA batteries for amateur devices, or rechargeable batteries with a Li-Ion charger.

Apart from the aforementioned attributes, the majority of manufacturers additionally specify the suggested functional aim and extent of usage of the apparatus, such as for soil, wood, concrete, or universal measuring apparatus.

Types

There is a large selection of moisture meters for sale, each with a unique working principle, set of design elements, application, and technical specifications. In light of the aforementioned features, all moisture meters are categorized into the following groups:

1. Depending on the operating principle:
2. Needle – equipped with a steel contact probe, which must penetrate the structure of wood or other materials to determine the percentage of moisture.
3. Contactless – a spherical steel flask is installed on the steel rod of the device, which is sensitive to changes in the density and chemical composition of the environment. The plates located in the flask increase in volume when the humidity changes, which causes the formation of a signal for transmission to the actuator of the electronic unit.
4. By area of ​​use and functional purpose:
5. For wood – the most frequently used devices.
6. For bulk inert materials – sand, crushed stone, gravel, expanded clay.
7. For stone and reinforced stone building materials, building structures – concrete, brickwork, rubble stone and other products made of natural or synthetic raw materials, as well as for insulation made of polystyrene foam or mineral wool.
8. For soil base and soil covers to determine the level of humidity and assess the potential flooding of the territory.
9. By measurement accuracy:
10. Amateur – with an accuracy of moisture measurements up to 0.1%.
11. Professional, high-precision devices, with a measurement accuracy of up to 0.01%.

The range of primary functions of a moisture meter determines its accuracy and dependability in measurements, which in turn affects the retail cost of metrological equipment.

Complete species article available at this link.

Terms of use

It is never necessary to hire experts to use a moisture meter correctly because you can always complete the task with your hands without the need for intricate mathematical calculations or preliminary procedures.

In order to determine the precise moisture content of wood, bulk materials, subgrades, or building structures, the following technological map points must be completed:

• The tool is removed from the packaging and batteries are inserted into the rear compartment.
• In factory conditions, the moisture meter is calibrated and verified, but the settings may go astray during its operation. In such situations, recalibration of the equipment is required.
• The device is turned on by pressing the corresponding power button.
• The probes are removed from a special niche in the device body and installed in the working position.
• When measuring the moisture content of the soil base, it is necessary to carefully insert the needle probes into the soil to a depth of 100 mm, then wait for a while and press the measurement button. The indicator will display the percentage of soil moisture.
• To measure the moisture content of wood, it is necessary to attach the needle probes to the end side of the board or block and then press the device so that the tip of the sensor is stuck between the fibers.
• For measuring building structures, as a rule, a contactless device is used, which is enough to bring to the surface of the product, or touch it with a spherical sensor so that the device automatically calculates the moisture indicators.
• In the case of removal of measurements from the bulk of the material, the probes must be inserted into the structure of the material to a depth of 300 mm, after which it is necessary to gently move the device upward, along the natural corner of the embankment.
• Given that most of the categories of building structures or soil bases are heterogeneous materials, to obtain accurate indicators, it is necessary to carry out at least 5 – 10 iterations in different places, the field of which is the minimum, maximum field, and also calculate the average value.

It should be remembered that different moisture meters made by different companies may have different operating instructions. In this regard, it is advised that you read the user manual carefully before turning on the device and become acquainted with professional instructors’ video lessons and master classes, which are frequently available to the public due to their training videos.

Calibration and verification

As was already mentioned, a moisture meter is an accurate measuring device, though occasionally its settings can be lost. In the event that this occurs, the apparatus needs to be carefully calibrated and verified, which is done using the following algorithm:

• The probes or contactless sphere must be cleaned of any kind of dirt and traces of oxidation.
• The reliability of the connection of the conductive cables from the probe to the actuator is checked.
• The charge level of the battery or accumulator is checked.
• A second moisture meter may be required for calibration, or the user must be 100% sure of the moisture readings of the material being tested.
• The moisture meter is turned on, after which the probes are applied to the surface being tested.
• The display shows a value that differs from the real one, either up or down.
• There is a special key on the device body, the locking of which will allow you to change the readings of the device to the reference values.
• When holding the lock key, using the arrows, the readings on the device are calibrated to the desired value, which corresponds to the real humidity of the equipment being tested.
• Upon completion of the procedure, the lock key is released, and a new value is shown on the screen, which means passing the moisture meter of complete verification.

Professional moisture meters also need to be periodically tested, which should be done at least once every three to six months, in addition to emergency situations.

When a professional organization inspects building structures, it must obtain a relevant certificate from the state within a certain amount of time. This certificate certifies that the necessary calibration and verification have been completed and permits the release of an official report following the testing of the structural components.

Check out this article for more information.

Pros and cons of using

Since moisture meters have so many benefits, they are frequently used when determining the moisture content of bulk materials, soil foundations, and building structures.

• Low dead weight.
• Quickly scan any material.
• A wide range of products on the market, which are classified according to various parameters and prices.
• High measurement accuracy.
• The overall dimensions allow you to easily put the device in your pocket.
• Extended service life.
• Many professional devices can be used to compile official reports on the results of examination of building structures.
• Relatively low price of amateur equipment.
• Possibility of purchasing a non-contact device.

However, because moisture meters also have a number of drawbacks, in some circumstances it may be necessary to send samples of the building’s structural components or materials for a thorough analysis in a lab setting.

• Small scanning depth of non-contact moisture meters.
• High risk of deformation of the wood probe.
• Moisture meters often get lost, require calibration and adjustment.
• Most devices are not waterproof.
• Fast battery drain.
• High risk of purchasing low-quality goods on the market.

Despite these drawbacks, the most practical, rapid, and affordable method for figuring out a subject’s moisture content is to use a portable moisture meter. This is the case for any contractor or landowner planning to build a private residence.

User reviews

Since moisture meters are among the most widely used tools for professionals or amateurs to measure the amount of moisture in a variety of solids, many customers have left reviews, both favorable and unfavorable:

• The measurement error does not exceed 2% – 3%.
• When using a non-contact device, the scanning depth of the solid material is too small.
• The most accurate moisture meters are devices that take measurements in a sealed chamber.
• The working ranges of moisture measurement of most moisture meters do not exceed 35% – 40%.
• Some moisture meters are equipped with metal detectors, which also allows them to be used to inspect reinforced concrete structures for the presence and location of reinforcement.

The aforementioned product reviews from actual customers can be found here, here, and here.

Average price in the Russian Federation

Hundreds of manufacturing companies compete with one another to offer moisture meters on the market. The following retail prices are available for these devices, depending on their functionality, purpose, measurement accuracy, and other factors:

• Amateur moisture meter for wood – from 0.8 to 3.5 thousand. rubles.
• Moisture meter for bulk materials – from 5.5 – 8.5 thousand. rubles.
• Universal moisture meter for building structures – from 3.5 – 4.5 thousand. rubles.
• Moisture meter for soil foundations – from 4.5 – 6.5 thousand. rubles.
• Professional high-precision moisture meter with a wired remote probe – from 15 – 20 thousand. rubles.

The region in which the goods are sold, the quantity of units purchased at a time, the intricacy of the logistics, the quantity of advertising, the level of brand recognition, and the internal marketing strategy of the facility or supplier are all factors that could cause the above prices to differ slightly.

Useful video

Regarding the characteristics of the induction and needle moisture meter measurements in the video:

A vital step in guaranteeing the durability and strength of concrete is proper moistening. You can avoid cracks and raise the project’s overall quality by keeping the proper moisture content. This easy-to-follow but efficient method promotes uniform concrete curing, which yields a more dependable and durable finish.

Even though the method might seem simple, it’s crucial to adhere to best practices and make adjustments for particular circumstances. The outcome can differ greatly depending on how carefully the concrete is moistened, regardless of the size of the construction site or the scale of the project. In the long run, a small effort pays off.

In the end, moistening is an essential component of any concrete project. It guarantees that the product of your labors will be a strong and durable structure. You’re making an investment in the durability and security of your build by giving this step top priority. Remember that the secret to a successful and long-lasting project is a well-moisturized concrete foundation.

In order to ensure the strength and durability of the material, moistening is an essential step in the concrete work process. Concrete can attain its ideal hardness and resistance to cracking by carefully controlling moisture levels during the curing phase. This post will discuss the significance of maintaining concrete’s moisture content, how it impacts the finished product, and offer helpful advice for efficient moisture control.

Video on the topic

Moisture meters Gann H | Demonstration of work

Comparison of moisture meters for wood, needle and inductive (contactless)

Moisturing Holzmeister LG6NG | Unpacking and overview of the moisture meter

My moisture meters for wood. Functionality, tests, answers to questions!!