Thermo-Hygrometer vs. Moisture Meter
Each of these tools is used in tandem by our drivers when dropping off materials to jobsites. The Hygrometer measures relative humidity (RH). Oftentimes this is used in the summer and late winter to check humidity levels in homes. The moisture meter is used to check the moisture content of the flooring and subfloor. Both are essential to ensure that you will avoid moisture or humidity related problems on a jobsite, so we recommend every contractor has these tools in their truck.
Relative humidity and moisture content are different types of measurements, but they affect each other when it comes to installing wood floors. If the humidity of the environment surrounding the wood is higher than the moisture content of the wood itself, the wood will absorb water until the RH of the wood matches that of the air around it. This is why acclimating your wood floors before installation is very important.
This is also why you need to measure the relative humidity of a jobsite––this is where the Delmhorst HT-3000 comes in––as well as the moisture content of the wood, which the Delmhorst J2000 helps you measure.
In certain areas, such as the northeast United States––where we are located––relative humidity can vary greatly from season to season, with humidity levels soaring in the summertime and dropping drastically during the winter. This can have a big impact on wood floors, since they are hygroscopic which means that they absorb/release moisture depending on the environment around them.
The Delmhorst J2000 accurately measures the moisture content (MC) of wood and corrects for 48 different wood species. It comes with a carrying case, which is important because this is a precision instrument.
The Delmhorst HT-3000 thermo-hygrometer provides very accurate and instant readings of the relative humidity (RH) and temperature of the environment. It also comes with a carrying case to protect it.
Add both of them to your arsenal to ensure you don’t have to deal with moisture issues on your jobsites!
Watch a video demo of both of these products in the YouTube video at the top of this post.
