A review of testing for moisture in building elements

Moisture is a primary cause of many problems in buildings, both during and after construction. While moisture will always be present in and even essential to buildings, it must be measured and controlled to stay within acceptable limits. Relevant personnel are, however, often unaware of the range of techniques available for determining moisture presence in building elements and which methods are the most appropriate in different situations. This publication, which provides independent, authoritative guidance for designers, contractors, surveyors and maintenance engineers, helps the reader to gain an understanding of moisture in materials and building elements, the need for testing, and the range of methods and equipment available. It is primarily a compilation of reviews of the different methods, providing information on their principles and characteristics, appropriate use, advantages and limitations, means of operation, interpretation of the results and further key sources of reference for those requiring greater detail.