Sheetrock, also known as drywall, is one of the critical elements of home construction. Although it doesn't support the weight of the home the way the wood or steel frame does, sheetrock provides a crucial aesthetic by neatly concealing the wires, insulation, and "guts" of a building. It also can be the first thing to degrade when moisture levels get too high. Measuring the moisture content in sheetrock can be essential for home renovation and restoration projects, and is an easy task to complete with the right tool.
Instructions
1. Insert the moisture meter pins into the wall and wait for the machine to measure the moisture content. When using pin-type meters to test preventively, insert the metal probes in an inconspicuous location. If using a pin-less moisture meter, simply place the machine up against the wall. Pin-less varieties will need to be calibrated for the thickness of the sheet rock, so obtain this measurement from the building plans tor owners, or take a measurement from a location in the home where there is a break in the sheetrock.
2. Test in several locations, not just one. One test may indicate overall humidity levels in a home but won't indicate potential problems such as leaks or seams in exterior walls. Misshapen, cracked, or worn locations on the exterior of the home provide markers for interior tests. The moisture meter will display a clear moisture percentage; be sure to note the location and percentage of each test. Sheetrock moisture content needs to be below 12% in order to be acceptable.
3. Repair any marks left by the pins if moisture levels do not necessitate total replacement. Use standard painter's putty and touch up paint.
4. Measure once more after corrective steps have been taken in order to verify that the problem has been addressed. Don't assume that a repair or two has done the job; prove it.
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