Concrete moisture meters measure the moisture content in newly placed and existing concrete slabs. They are particularly important when moisture sensitive finished flooring products are going to be used, such as sheet vinyl, which will encapsulate the concrete surface. Encapsulating concrete that still has a high ratio of moisture (measured as relative humidity) leads to a greater risk of adhesive and/or flooring failures.
Two critical steps to success? Making the decision to test the concrete and choosing the proper testing method. It is important to note that all types of concrete moisture meters are not acceptable for monitoring and documenting concrete moisture conditions as specified by ASTM International industry standards.
There are several types of concrete moisture meters:
- Touch-n-Sense technology
- Smart Sensors
- Easiest test to comply with ASTM F2170
Relative humidity testing uses a sensor or sensor sleeve installed in the concrete slab to measure moisture conditions below the surface of the concrete. See ASTM F2170 for specific requirements for using Relative humidity testing for documentation purposes.
- Quick scanning of concrete surface areas
- Non-damaging
- Pocket size, easy to read analog meter
Pinless or surface concrete moisture meters use non-damaging radio frequency or electromagnetic wave technology (EMT) to scan the concrete within a certain depth of the concrete surface. Pinless meters are not acceptable for determining relative humidity measurements, but are useful for providing comparative readings to determine the best placement for in situ test methods.
- Radio frequency technology
- Measures concrete, ceramic tile and more
- Measure upto 3/4" depth
Pin concrete moisture meters, like pin-style wood meters, operate by using a set of pins or probes to penetrate the concrete surface to a specific depth (typically less than 1 inch) and reading the moisture content by rating the resistance between its pins. See ASTM C803 for acceptable uses of pin-style meters.