Carbide meter
When identifying damp in buildings, architects, surveyors etc may use moisture meters to confirm or obtain a diagnosis. In skilled hands with regular site calibration, moisture meters can be a good starting point.
Carbide meters are one method of measuring moisture content. This technique (sometimes referred to as Speedy Carbide Test after the manufacturer’s name) works by testing a weighed sample of drilled mansory that has been taken from a sample area such as a mortar joint located above the damp proof course. This sample is then placed in a container. A measured amount of calcium carbide powder is placed in a separate portion of the container, and then the container is sealed. The container is shaken and the two substances mix together to trigger a reaction that produces acetylene gas if moisture is present.
The meter will indicate the results of the test. Readings will range from 0 to 5, with a higher number indicating a higher level of moisture.
Carbide meters are likely to give a more accurate measure of moisture content than some other techniques, although they require the removal of a sample - which could be considered by some as destructive. As a result, this method of testing may only be advisable after an electronic meter, or some other method has indicated the presence of moisture.
For more information see: Assessing moisture in porous building materials.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025
Just one of the winners at the CIOB Awards 2025.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.