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Moisture content in sheet rock

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2008 6:01 pm
by BarryH1701
I have recently discovered some significant water problems in the walls on one side of my home from rain from Hurricane Ike. I have purchased a moisture detector to test all of the walls in the home. I can tell what areas have more moisture than others, but what I need to know is what would normal moisture content be within sheet rock? The meter registers moisture up to 40% in wood and from 0% to 2% in sheet rock so I'm assuming 2% in sheet rock is pretty soaked. I've had readings ranging from .35% to 1.7% along my back wall. Can anyone provide me with an answer with what is an acceptable or normal amount of moisture in sheet rock so I can better understand the readings. Of course, I know 1.7% is pretty wet as the wall itself is soft from the moisture. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Or any direction to who could better answer this for me would be helpful as well. Thank you!

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2008 7:08 pm
by Greg
You could contact the meter's manufacturer for some help. I think I would also test a new sheet of drywall to give you a baseline. Greg

RE: Moisture content in sheet rock

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2008 7:51 pm
by JD
I don't know the answer to your question but this article with pictures may help you.

Building Moisture Testing


JD

RE: Moisture content in sheet rock

Posted: Sun Sep 28, 2008 8:39 pm
by Yanita
Hi,

Sorry, I can not answer your questions either...but will say that you should remove (ASAP) any wet sheetrock. This needs to be removed and you need to inspect the interior of the wall. Probably going to have to remove all insulation that has gotten wet, it is no good once wet. Leaving your home in this condition will result in alot more damage. Once opened up you will also see if you are going to have to replace any flooring sections due to the moisture.

Waiting will also allow for mold and mildew to grow.

Yanita

RE: Moisture content in sheet rock

Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2008 9:34 am
by Harry
Hi

Interesting question. “what is an acceptable or normal amount of moisture in sheet rock” I don’t know but:

When my coworker in Miami had her site built house flooded the insurance adjuster said one (1) hour underwater was an automatic replacement. They replaced the bottom 2’ of the sheetrock. 1’ of it was above the water line.

Since you have the meter I would go around and test known good sheetrock….neighbors, lumber yards and home improvement stores to gather data.

First thing I would do is repair the leak.

JMO

Harry