Moisture Content in Wood

[David Boarts]

I am looking for a tool to measure the moisture content in wood. Does anyone have a good recommendation?

[Donnie Raines]

Hi David,

I am rather fond of the Delmhorst products. They offer a wide range of meters, however they tend to be on the higher end of the price scale.

[Mac McAtee]

Harbor Freight has one that, I think,when not on sale is about $30 and half that when you catch a sale.

[Bob Smalser]

Buy a used Delmhorst off of Ebay in the 60-dollar range. I been looking at older J-88's to have as a backup.

They've been the industry leader since WWII among professional mills.

Read their FAQ spiel on pins versus pinless before deciding:

http://www.delmhorst.com/

I've had folks check my stacks with various brands of hobbyist meters, and some of the readings are ridiculous. My local lumber graders tell similar stories, as some softwood grading requires a moisture test.

You can also check your M/C without a meter using a powder or postage scale and an oven.