7 Best Woodworking Moisture Meters of 2024
6 / 7
Best Wood Moisture Meter Value
Proster Digital Moisture Meter
The three-button Proster Digital Moisture Meter is an ideal entry level meter for lumber, firewood, uncut logs and cardboard paper products. According to the manufacturer, the sensitive electrode pins measure with ±0.5-percent accuracy.
It features an easy-to-read LCD display, auto power-off functionality and nearly 50 preprogrammed species of wood, all in an affordable and durable ABS plastic device.
Style: Pin.
Range: Up to 99.9%.
Accuracy: ±0.5%.
Power supply: 9v battery.
Pros
- Inexpensive;
- User friendly.
Cons
- May not be as accurate as manufacturer says.
7 / 7
Best All-Around Moisture Meter
General Tools Four-in-One Digital Moisture Meter
The pricy General Tools Four-in-One Digital Moisture Meter gives you the most accurate readings for finding mold in your home. The pin/pinless device features a humidity sensor, water leak detector and a mold tester. It can detect moisture levels of 5% to 50% in wood or 1.5% to 33% in concrete and drywall.
The dual display has a hold function for storing a reading for later review, an auto diagnostic check and auto power off after three minutes of inactivity. You’ll also receive a molded plastic case, lanyard, two spare pins and an instruction manual to get you started.
Style: Pin/pinless.
Range: Wood: 5% to 50%. Building materials: 1.5% to 33%.
Accuracy: ±3%.
Power supply: 9v battery.
Pros
- Both pin and pinless;
- Four modes;
- Includes lots of accessories.
Cons
- Pricey;
- May be challenging to use.
Why You Should Trust Us
With more than 30 years working in the building trades, I used my hands-on experience and first-hand knowledge to select the best wood moisture meters on the market. I’ve contributed to constructing a city in the Oregon desert, co-established two landscaping companies and worked as a carpenter, plumber and furniture refinisher. Since 2010, I’ve been sharing my expertise through DIY articles and serving as an online consultant, including with Home Depot’s Pro Referral service.
We consulted with Brad Rodriguez, founder of Fix This Build That to learn more about how moisture meters work and why they’re an important tool. Rodriguez channeled his love of woodworking into building a website that teaches everyone from beginners up to seasoned woodworkers how to complete various projects.
FAQs
How accurate are wood moisture meters?
This is the No. 1 feature to note. Some expensive meters boast ±0.1% accuracy. A woodworker usually doesn’t need that and can get by with a cheaper, less accurate meter. The highest error range that ensures meaningful results is ±5%.
How much does a moisture meter cost?
As with anything, moisture meters can be simple and straightforward or loaded with extras. Prices range from less than $20 to more than $1,000.
Are pin or pinless moisture meters better?
As mentioned earlier, pin-type meters measure moisture by penetrating the wood’s surface, pinless meters use a sensor plate that makes contact with the wood’s surface. Pinless meters are able to measure moisture content deeper inside the wood than pin-type meters, but they don’t get as accurate of a reading.
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