The only moisture meters that provide accurate readings of moisture levels in concrete will be labeled "Concrete Moisture Meter." They are distinguished from other moisture meters by internal circuitry that is calibrated exclusively to read the moisture level in concrete or similar materials by sending an electromagnetic wave field into the concrete and interpreting the capacitance signal received by the sensor pad. For flooring installation applications, ASTM F2659 stipulates the use of concrete moisture meters as a means to provide a "...preliminary evaluation of the moisture condition of concrete, gypsum cement, or other floor slabs and screeds...." This means a concrete moisture meter that complies fully with ASTM F2659, like Wagner's C555 Concrete Moisture Meter, can be used to determine higher or lower concentrations of moisture within a concrete slab. Scanning and analysis of C555 data can assist greatly with making the best decisions about where to place Rapid RH® L6 sensors for ASTM F2170 in situ RH testing. Concrete moisture meters should never be used to determine the moisture condition of a concrete slab at the time when flooring materials will be applied.
Concrete Flooring FAQ