Moisture Mapping is a comprehensive tool utilized to pinpoint areas of excessive moisture within structures, enabling proactive measures to prevent costly damage. Understanding acceptable moisture levels is crucial for effective moisture management.
### Acceptable Moisture Levels
The tolerance for moisture varies depending on the building material and its environment. In general, the following ranges are considered acceptable:
– Wood: 6-12%
– Concrete: 75% relative humidity
– Drywall: 15%
### How Much Moisture is OK in Walls?
For walls, the acceptable moisture level is typically below 15%. Moisture levels exceeding this threshold can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and health concerns.
As a rule of thumb, if moisture penetrates building materials to a depth of 1/16 inch or more, it is considered excessive and requires immediate attention. Moisture Mapping can accurately identify areas where such penetration has occurred, guiding remediation efforts to prevent further issues.