INVESTIGATING, EVALUATING, AND REMEDIATING MOISTURE AND MOLD PROBLEMS

Equipment

Moisture Meters: Measure/Monitor Moisture Levels in Building Materials Moisture meters may be helpful for measuring the moisture content in a variety of building materials  following water damage. They can also be used to monitor the process of drying damaged materials. These direct reading devices have a thin probe which can be inserted into the material to be tested or can be pressed directly against the surface of the material. Moisture meters can be used on materials such as carpet, wallboard, wood, brick, and concrete.

Moisture Meter [Click on image for larger picture] Photo 9: Moisture meter measuring moisture content of plywood subfloor

Humidity Gauges or Meters:  Monitor Moisture Levels in the Air

Humidity meters can be used to monitor humidity indoors. Inexpensive (<$50) models are available that monitor both temperature and humidity.

Humidistat: Turns on HVAC System at Specific Relative Humidity (RH)

A humidistat is a control device that can be connected to the HVAC system and adjusted so that, if the humidity level rises above a set point, the HVAC system will automatically come on.

HVAC System Filter: Filters Outdoor Air

Use high-quality filters in your HVAC system during remediation. Consult an engineer for the appropriate efficiency for your specific HVAC system and consider upgrading your filters if appropriate. Conventional HVAC filters are typically not effective in filtering particles the size of mold spores. Consider upgrading to a filter with a minimum efficiency of 50 to 60% or a rating of MERV 8, as determined by Test Standard 52.2 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers. Remember to change filters regularly and change them following any remediation activities.