How to use a moisture meter on drywall and other wallboards
Measuring moisture in drywall and other wallboards is an essential step in detecting and assessing water damage. The only tool which will indicate if moisture levels are low enough to prevent mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs.
Why Moisture Detection in Walls Matters
Pin vs. Pinless: Which Moisture Meter Is Right for Drywall?
Pin-Type Meters
High accuracy, material specific
Works for thin drywall and offers up to 7″ depth
Measures in corners and other tight spaces
Leaves small puncture holes
Slower for large surface areas
Pinless Meters
Non-invasive scanning
Fast scanning 1/4″ and 3/4″ deep
Ideal for painted and smooth finished walls
May include studs and other materials directly behind the drywall panels
Pinless meters are recommended for smooth finished surfaces, because large areas can be scanned fast.
Using a Pinless Moisture Meter on Walls
1
Select a calibrated pinless model
Your choices are Ligno-Scanner SDM, Ligno-DuoTec BW and Ligno-VersaTec with shallow and deep mode and specific drywall calibration.
2
Place flat on the wall
Ensure full sensor contact with
a clean, smooth surface.
3
Scan multiple spots
Check top, bottom, and center of drywall panels for accurate readings.
4
Compare with dry zones
Readings may vary—start with a known dry area to set your baseline.
Pinless meters show highest moisture content within the measuring field, making them ideal for identifying hot spots quickly.
Recommended Lignomat Moisture Meters for Drywall
If you select a pin type meter, the mini-Ligno S/DC or DX/C are great choices. Special corrections for drywall, exterior and interior wall panels, backerboards as well as different wood species. Except depth electrode E14 for deep probing.
For more advanced use, the Ligno-VersaTec includes pinless, pin, and RH probe modes in one device—ideal for inspectors and restoration work.
When to Use a Moisture Meter on Walls
Home Inspections
Check for moisture issues before buying or selling.
Bathroom Renovations
Detect trapped moisture behind tile backer boards.
Water Damage Remediation
Confirm dry-out progress in walls post-leak or flood.
Drywall Installation
Ensure new materials are dry before finishing.
Moisture Meters Help You Catch Problems Early
Measuring drywall moisture doesn’t need to be invasive. With a Lignomat pinless meter, you can scan walls quickly, accurately, and without damage—protecting your home and your health.