Delmhorst Instrument TotalCheck - Manual (Page 25)

Copyright  2006, Delmhorst Instrument Co.
Page 25 of 32
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Porch columns that do not have good drainage and ventilation where they rest on
porch floors
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Siding or any other wood that is in contact with the ground may absorb moisture

Siding and shingles without sufficient lap so that water is forced up through cracks by
wind pressure
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Ice dams
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Condensation of vapor within hollow walls
EIFS (Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems ) *
Moisture intrusion problems in EIFS (also known as synthetic stucco) stem from leaking
window frames, improper use of or lack of sealant, and faulty installation of flashing.
If you suspect a problem take a visual inspection. Look for gaps around windows, doors,
air conditioning units, light fixtures, hose bibs, dryer vents and other areas of potential
penetration. Also look for visible signs of water damage. If you feel a problem exists, use
the TotalCheck with a # 21-E electrode. This electrode includes the #608 - (4")
insulated pins or #608/001 (6”) insulated pins in EIFS Package.
Procedure:

Drill two 1/4" holes about ¾” apart at an upward 45° angle.

Push the # 21-E Electrode into the holes through the polystyrene and into the
substrate.

Press the SELECT button and read the moisture content on the meter scale. The
meter displays the %MC for two seconds.

To add a reading to the previously stored readings, release the SELECT button if
you are in triggered mode. If you are in continuous mode, the meter will not store a
new reading until the SELECT button is pressed and released again during the
reading cycle.
*If the sheathing is plywood, set the meter to the proper species if known. If the
species is unknown, use Douglas Fir. If the sheathing is gypsum material, set the
species to Drywall.
USING 0-100 NUMERICAL REFERENCE SCALE (REL 0-100)
When taking a reading on hard materials such as concrete or masonry, set the meter to
REL 0-100 for a qualitative indication of the moisture level.
Make the best use of reference scale by first establishing a benchmark for the material
you are testing. Take readings in areas that you know are dry, or acceptable. Then take
readi
ngs on areas that are wet. These “dry to wet” readings can be used as reference
points against which subsequent readings are compared. Understanding the meter’s
behavior on a particular material, along with these comparative readings, your
experience, and visual clues will all help determine the overall condition. All readings