How can you tell how damp walls are?

In this presentation Geoff Hunt shows you how different patterns of moisture meter readings can inform you of what might be happening in the wall. By adding in other observations we can arrive at a reasoned conclusion.
GEOFFS MUG
Working with Gloria Daniel and artist Yani Ali from the Big Tomato Company, Surveyor Geoff Hunt curated images of four of the most iconic tools of the profession; the tape measure, note book, moisture meter and distance meter. Crafted in their Stoke on Trent workshops from fine Staffordshire bone china these mugs embody the traditions that shaped the profession and made to grace the desk of many proud surveyors following that path.
geoffrey-hunt.com/product/tap...
Malcom Hollands book on assessing cracks and movement blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/pro...
Graham Colemans amazingly detailed lectures on damp analysis / @grahamcoleman2502
Check out BRE digest 245 on assessing damp in walls.
BS 6576 Code of practice for diagnosis of rising damp in walls of buildings and installation of chemical damp-proof courses
knowledge.bsigroup.com/produc...

[@alanyoung7532]

This quotation from Protimeter mentions the two most common causes of false high readings - “Contrary to popular belief, a moisture meter is not a diagnosis tool. Rather, it helps an inspector make an informed call about moisture’s presence within a space or material. If your meter is giving you a high reading, that merits further investigation -- dampness may not be the reason for the measurement; metals and salts cause false-positive readings.”

[@yvonfem]

I have that book its very good

[@lewiscross8665]

Great video,
Can condensation/cold spots cause higher readings to walls?
Thanks

[@geoffhunt6646]

If the condensation hangs round long enough it can skew readings which is why you need to take a comparative reading. A lot of misdiagnosis of rising damp is caused by things like condensation. You often see videos of people lifting the plaster to find dry brickwork beneath.

[@mkeeganphipps]

#student Final question - foil backed plasterboard? 12:28

[@geoffhunt6646]

absolutely. the classic moisture meter false reading.

[@jasongriffin171]

Foilback plasterboard

[@dampsam]

Foil wallpaper lining, Black Ash plaster, batteries failing in the meter, condensation on the wall all can give high reading 🎉

[@dampsam]

Was Typical Suspects the sequel to Usual Suspects film? 😮