As the tension of global warming rises, the most pressing and significant issue is moisture penetration in masonry. The most effective way to solve this problem is repointing, which helps in masonry restoration by drying out the mortar and sealing it properly. Repointing plays an integral role in maintaining the structural integrity and appearance of residential and commercial properties. By identifying the signs of mortar damage, you can assess the moisture with the help of moisture meters. But the question arises, can moisture meters detect mortar damage? The answer will be no! Moisture meters can only be used for checking the moisture level, but it doesn’t work in identifying the damage in the mortar.
In this blog, we’ll get to explore the function of a moisture meter, how it measures moisture, and what the limitations of a moisture meter are:
What Does a Moisture Meter Do?
A moisture meter, also known as a moisture testing device, is an electrical device through which we can easily gauge the presence of moisture in the mortar, walls, bricks, and concrete.
Moisture meters are of two types, which include:
- Pin-type Moisture Meters: These meters consist of metal probes or needle-like sensors to gauge the electrical resistance, which determines the moisture concentration.
- Pinless Moisture Meters: These meters are used to check hidden moisture levels with electromagnetic waves, ensuring no destruction to the materials.
The Impact of Moisture On Mortar Integrity
Here are some of the harmful impacts of moisture in the mortar that risk its integrity. Let’s have a look at it:
Cause:
- Harsh weather conditions
- Inefficient water run-off systems
- Subsurface damp issues
- Trapped indoor moisture
- Ineffective weatherproofing
Consequences:
- Freeze-thaw cycles cause contraction and expansion in the mortar
- Water penetrations from roofs and facades
- Intrusion of pests and growth of molds & mildew
- Water stains and efflorescence on the walls
- Weakens the structural framework
Because moisture can severely affect mortar integrity, repointing becomes essential to prevent long-term structural issues.
Are Moisture Meters Efficiently Detecting Mortar Damage?
Moisture meters can not accurately measure the mortar damage, but they can help in identifying some of the signs that indicate your mortar needs to be repaired as soon as possible. Let’s have a look at how the readings of moisture meters help detect the signs:
| Moisture Meter Reading | Reading suggestions |
|---|---|
| Low level | Good sign, the mortar is dry and sound |
| Mid range | There could be moisture infiltration or trapped humidity |
| High level | Severe damage leads to potential deterioration. |
Challenges of Using Moisture Meters for Mortar Analysis
As the moisture meter has some benefits, it also has some challenges. Despite it being the best tool in determining the mortar issues, here are some of the challenges of using moisture meters:
- Shallow penetration capability: Moisture meters can measure the depth of at least 1 to ¾ inches, but not the subsurface.
- Reading distortions: You may find some distorted readings due to metal compounds and salt deposits.
- Temperature inaccuracies: variations in temperature, like scorching surface and frigid temperatures, can distort the results.
- Can’t measure mortar strength: moisture meters cannot measure the resilience of the mortar as they can’t determine the gaps and voids.
Even after detection, repointing requires expertise—see what makes the process challenging and why hiring a contractor matters.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, moisture meters are made for moisture detection in masonry. It is a readily available yet high-performance tool with an affordable price. This device can help in finding the moisture level, but not the exact cause of it. You can only determine the signs of the damage present in the mortar with gentle testing.
Sardar Restoration Corp. proudly serves every corner of NYC, including the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, and Queens. Our services are designed to meet your needs, providing top-quality solutions wherever you are. Check our service areas to see how we can assist you in your location.
Contact us today at (+1) 917-355-8556 or sardarrestoration@gmail.com, or visit us at 2770 Fish Ave, Bronx, NY 10469, United States.
FAQs
Can I use a moisture meter to check for rising damp in mortar?
Yes, you can! Moisture meters can efficiently measure rising damp in mortar and assess the common reason for moisture intrusion in base-level mortar joints.
Do you offer repointing services in residential and commercial areas?
Yes! Sardar Restoration Corp. offers repointing services for both residential and commercial properties, which involve the skillful removal of old mortar and the installation of new mortar.
Do your moisture meters damage the wall?
No, not all! Sardar Restoration Corp. uses the moisture meters with vigilance and precision. The Pin-type moisture meters can bore small pinholes, while the pinless moisture meters are the safest and non-invasive procedure.
Do you detect the intensity of mortar damage before repointing?
Yes! Our repointing contractor in NYC ensures that the damage in the mortar is checked with a moisture meter before starting the work, to achieve the most efficient possible outcome after execution, and to ensure it is set with proper masonry settings.
