A pinless moisture meter, also known as a moisture detector, works by transmitting a low-frequency electronic signal into the material to be tested.

With Tramex's non-destructive moisture meters, this signal is transmitted via electrode pads at the base of the device when it is placed on the surface of a building material.

The strength of the signal corresponds to the moisture content of the material. The moisture meter measures the current strength and converts it into a moisture content reading or a reference value, which is then displayed in either analogue or digital form. This measurement provides an indication of the moisture content of the material without the need for pins or invasive methods.

Pinless moisture meters are non-destructive and detect moisture content through the surface of a material without damaging it. This non-invasive approach can be critical to maintaining the integrity of building materials, flooring and painted surfaces as it leaves no holes or marks.

The instant readings of non-destructive moisture meters are particularly advantageous when testing large areas such as walls, floors or ceilings. This efficiency enables large rooms to be tested quickly within a limited time frame.

In contrast, a pin meter requires pins to be inserted into the material at precise locations to measure the moisture content. While this method provides a very accurate reading for a specific location, pinless meters provide broader readings that cover a larger sample area of the material being tested.

The readings obtained with pinless meters correspond to the footprint of the electrodes and the depth of their signal. It is worth noting that the Tramex ME5 and MEX5 pinless moisture meters have an additional shallow depth mode and provide accurate readings due to their smaller electrode area and signal depth.

Yes, moisture meters can provide accurate measurements if they are properly calibrated to ensure reliable readings.

Moisture analysers provide either quantitative measurements or comparative readings.

Moisture meters can be calibrated for a specific material such as concrete or wood to provide quantitative measurements of moisture content in per cent (%MC). These quantitative measurements are based on the gravimetric oven method.

The use of an accurate quantitative moisture analyser is crucial when it comes to complying with industry standards or manufacturer guidelines for specific materials, as it ensures precise measurements of moisture content.

Moisture meters can be equipped with comparative or relative scales that allow the user to make comparative measurements of composite building materials. This function allows the moisture conditions in these materials to be assessed.

A comparative measured value or reference measured value provides an exact indication of the moisture content, which is normally displayed on a scale from 0 to 100.

When using a reference scale for moisture meters, the initial moisture reading is taken from a known dry location or a sample of the material being tested. This dry reading serves as a reference or standard for evaluating other locations with higher readings that may indicate increased moisture content. Any readings that are lower than the reference value or dry standard can be used to replace the original reference point or dry standard value.

Reference readings are particularly useful when dealing with structures consisting of different material densities. The density of a material can affect the signal penetration of a moisture meter.

Tramex has developed a range of reference scales for moisture meters that are calibrated for different building materials and structures.

• Ensure that the surface to be tested is dry and free from contamination.

• Press the electrodes of the measuring device, which are located at the base of the device, onto the material to be tested. The reading is taken immediately.

• Make a note of the measured value and simply repeat the process until you have collected enough data.

With the Tramex Meters app, you can create moisture maps, save readings in reports and share them with others when using one of our 5 meters.