Replies

1. 
   RANGERP75R | Jan 22, 2003 04:29am | #1

   BG

      I use a $70 Timber-Check on rough stock and a Wagner digital on prepared stock. I have never used the $35 model you're speaking of. But for $35 it's worth a shot.

      Moisture meters are worth their weight in gold, IMO. If you get it and it works, post. Will pass info along locally. You might compare it to a freind that has one to see if you're getting the basic same read-outs.

      Keep in mind that you will get various reading along a piece of new stock as it will generally tend to have more content in the center of the stock.

   Good Luck...

   sarge..jt

1. 
   Telemike | Jan 22, 2003 08:37am | #2

   You can actually measure the variation of moisture with thickness.  Cut a scarf (about a 4 or 5 to 1 angle cut along the grain.  Then, measure from the outside towards with center of the scarf and you'll get the moisture content of the wood different distances from the surface.  Keep both pins an equal distance from the surface when measuring.  Also, measure quickly because end grain loses moisture quickly.

   I also use this technique to test paint for lead using a sodium sulfide reagent.  The scarf cut widens the apparent cross section of each layer and the sulfide blackens it.  Yes, I found some lead in this old house, but not a whole lot!

1. 
   RANGERP75R | Jan 22, 2003 08:58am | #3

   TELEMIKE

      I usually attack from both sides with 4/4. A pin type on one side and the digital on the other. This gives me an average as each is supposed to read to 1/2" deep. When I get and average of 8% to 11% overall, it's time to get serious about going to work. ha..ha..

      Your method seems sound. The only thing I would hesitate about is cutting a scarf in prepared 3/4" stock just before working it...

   Have a good evening...

   sarge..jt