When you see stains on the ceiling, do you attempt to use a moisture meter on the ceiling?
I would…
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I usually start with IR.
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I was going to say that if you are properly trained in IR, that is probably the best method especially on high ceilings. Otherwise, if it’s 8 to 12 ft ceilings that you could safely reach with a ladder, a moisture meter is a good way to go.
If you already see the stain you know right where to check with your moisture meter. When you find an anomaly with IR which may indicate a moisture intrusion, it’s recommended to confirm with your moisture meter and/or other means.
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I didn’t quite finish the IR with internachi yet. Have to do the essays. And I don’t have one yet. Wasn’t exactly sure which one to start out with
a good moisture meter is the correct tool for stains on the ceiling in my opinion…
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A moisture meter would be good if is raining or recently has been. I would memorize the location and search for it in the attic, if possible. Next, withe location still in mind check the roof. From my experience, most ceiling stains are from many years ago and have been corrected by roof repairs or replacements.
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I always do and I document what the moisture content was at the time of the inspection. Even if it’s dry I put it on the report
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I probe all water stains for the most part. This little FLIR pen-type moisture meter is a great tool that fits in your pocket or tool pouch for quickly testing stains.
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Nice that you are taking the Nachi course. Many opinions on this, but my two cents for the money, that Chinese Hikmicro Pocket Pro is hard to beat. Full disclosure, I have a Flir E6 that I’ve had for many years.
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Usually, I just use my moisture meter, but usually they are old stains, so unless it is recent it will not show anything. Ideally, you may have access to the attic where in most cases you will see signs of older roof leaks. Regardless, be sure to note it in your report with pictures, location etc.
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I use a Hydroshark to check them sometimes.
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If no moisture is found does not mean you don’t need to report what you see “appropriately”.
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Every time.
If moisture is detected, I take a picture of the moisture meter on the stain reading a high content and report it as such.
If the stain is dry, I still take a picture of it and I report that a dry stain was viewed.
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Thanks for all your input. It’s great to hear the different meters to use and to make sure take pics of the readings
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Morning, Rob. PLeasure to meet you.
I was taken back by your question.
Ceiling stains usually/normally are indicative an active leak be it roof, plumbing, or condensation. First, I want to identify the source of moisture be it bulk water or condesation.
A moisture meter should be in your tool kit. No if’s and’s or but’s.
Use a chair if you do not have your 6 foot step ladder on hand.
You are sending off the wrong message to the wrong party if you do not use your moisture meter even when suspect!
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