Moisture Analysis and Measurement
Moisture can cause significant damage to buildings if left undetected and untreated. Moisture Mapping is a non-invasive technique used to identify and locate areas of excessive moisture in buildings. This helps determine the source of the moisture, such as leaks, condensation, or rising dampness, and enables proactive measures to prevent further damage.
What is the Best Measure of Moisture?
There are several methods to measure moisture in buildings, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Relative Humidity (RH)
RH measures the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount it can hold at a given temperature. RH is commonly used in conjunction with temperature readings to assess indoor air quality.
Moisture Content
Moisture content measures the amount of water present in a material, typically expressed as a percentage of the material’s dry weight. This method is often used to assess moisture in building materials such as wood or drywall.
Infrared Thermography
Infrared thermography uses a thermal imaging camera to detect variations in surface temperature. Wet areas tend to be cooler than dry areas, making this method effective for locating moisture behind walls or ceilings.
Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT)
EIT uses electrical currents to create a cross-sectional image of a structure. Areas of high moisture content have lower electrical impedance, allowing for the identification of moisture distribution.
The best measure of moisture depends on the specific application and material being tested. By combining different measurement techniques, a comprehensive picture of the moisture situation in a building can be obtained.