12 Testing Brick or Concrete for Paint Application
13 Detecting Moisture in Insulation
14 Care of Your Meter
14 Service For Your Meter
15 Warranty
Species and Temperature Correction Tables
and Pin Correction Chart can be found in the
back of the owner's manual.
D E L M H O R S TB D - 2 1 0 0
^
#2497/A-100 Contact Pins
with 5/16” penetration
Connector for
External
Electrode
%
Digital Readout
&
The operating instructions for the model BD-2100 are divided
into two sections. Section A is a step-by-step guide to the
different features and basic use of your moisture meter.
Section B contains information on how the meter is used for
testing different materials.
Please read the instructions carefully. If you require additional
information, please contact Delmhorst for assistance.
SECTION A
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
*
Color-coded
LED Indicators
!
Read Key
@
Calibration
Check, Stats
Key
$
Set-Point
Key
#
Scale
Key
BD-2100 FEATURES
hDesigned to check moisture levels in wood, concrete, EIFS,
drywall, and other materials
hResistance technology recognized around the world as the
most accurate method for measuring moisture
hProven microcontroller circuit
h6%-40% MC range on wood
h0.2%-50% MC range on gypsum
h0 to 100 reference scale for other non-wood materials
hEasy one-hand operation
hIncludes (1) 9-Volt Battery
hIncludes sturdy carrying case
hOne-year warranty
2
KEY FUNCTIONS
! Read Key - This key reads the Percent Moisture Content
or relative moisture value in the material under test.
@ Calibration Check Key - This key, (when pressed with the
read key) checks the meter calibration. It also displays
the number of readings in memory (up to 100), the
average, and the highest stored reading. It also clears
the memory.
# Scale Key - This key sets the display scale to #1 (Wood),
#2 (0-100 Reference scale), and #3 (Gypsum). It also
acts as a scroll key, depending on the function.
$ Set-Point Key - This key programs the set-point value. A
buzzer will alert you if the meter reads higher than the
selected value. It also acts as a scroll key, depending on
the function.
CHECK CALIBRATION
hPress the read key ! and calibration check key @
simultaneously. Meter is in calibration if it displays 12%
(+/- 0.2). Make sure the pins are not in contact with anything
when checking the calibration.
If you check the calibration and the meter does not display 12%,
it is likely an indication of a low battery. If this occurs, replace
the battery with a new one immediately. Continued use with a
low battery may cause the meter to go out of calibration. If you
have a fresh battery and the instrument still does not indicate a
correct calibration, return it to DELMHORST for service. See
Service for Your Meter section.
Note:
When the battery is removed and then reconnected, the
meter displays its software version for one second and then
turns itself off. After replacing the battery, you must reset
the meter as described in Resetting the Meter section.
3
A hard Reset is required if, after changing the battery, the
display is frozen. This is sometimes caused by the interruption
of contact between the battery and battery lead wire. Resolve
this as follows:
Disconnect the battery. Press and hold the Read key for 15
seconds. Release the Read key. Press and hold the Check key
for 15 seconds. Release the Check key. Connect a fresh
battery to the lead wire in a single action, making sure to
align the poles properly and without interrupting contact. If
the display remains frozen, repeat the procedure. If this
procedure does not solve the problem, refer to the Service for
Your Meter section.
SET THE SCALE
Set the scale for #1 Wood, #2 0-100
Plaster/Concrete Reference) scale, or #3 Gypsum (Drywall).
hTo change the scale, press the scale key
display the current scale for one second.
hTo scroll forward through the scales hold the scale key
while the current scale is displayed and scroll to the scale
desired.
hTo scroll backward through the scales, press and hold the
set-point key
releasing the scale key
$ within one second of pressing and
#. Continue to hold the set-point key
#. The meter will
$ and the scale number will decrease.
hWhen scrolling in either direction, release the key to stop
at your desired scale.
Changing the scale will automatically reset the set-point
value to the default setting for that particular scale. Default
settings are as follows:
hTo change the set-point value press the set-point key
$. The meter will display the current set-point value for
the scale you have chosen for one second.
hTo scroll forward to a higher value for that scale hold the
set-point key
and scroll to the set-point value desired.
4
$ while the current set-point is displayed
#
hTo scroll backward through the set-point values, press and
hold the scale key
releasing the set-point key
hContinue to hold the scale key
will decrease.
hWhen scrolling in either direction, release the key to stop
at your desired set-point.
# within one second of pressing and
$.
# and the set-point value
INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR
READINGS
The meter will accumulate up to 100 readings in memory. After
all 100 readings are “stored” it will continue to display the
number of readings, the average, and the highest as a reminder
that the memory is full. It will not add new readings until the
memory has been cleared.
hTo add a reading to the sum of all the previously stored
readings, release the read key
avoid storing a reading, keep the Read key depressed until
the pins are no longer in contact with the material.
When taking and storing readings of a specific material, be
sure to “clear” the meter before switching to the next scale if
you do not want to group all of the readings together.
Readings below 6% will be displayed as -5.8 and readings above
40% will be displayed as a flashing 40.0. Neither of these types
of readings will be added to your accumulated readings.
! within 2 seconds. To
TO CHECK ACCUMULATED
READINGS
This feature allows you to view the total number of all
accumulated readings for the selected material, the average of
those readings, and the highest stored reading.
hTo view the readings press and release the calibration
check key
mulated readings for one second, then the average of those
readings for two seconds. Then it displays the highest
stored reading for two seconds. The total “cycle” time is
five seconds.
hTo erase readings hold the calibration check key
seconds. All accumulated readings will be erased and the
meter will display “0”.
hTo keep the accumulated readings in memory, release the
calibration check key
above cycle.
@. First the meter displays the number of accu-
@ for 5
@ before the meter finishes the
5
TO RESET METER
hPress and release the calibration check key @.
hWithin one second press the scale key
hThe meter will reset itself the default setting of Scale #1
(wood) and 15% set-point, and clear all the readings
stored in memory.
hResetting the meter will erase any previously stored readings.
#.
SECTION B
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Temperature –As wood temperature increases, its electrical
resistance decreases and indicated moisture content rises.
Lower wood temperatures result in lower indicated moisture
content. If the wood temperature, which is typically the
ambient temperature, is between 50˚F/10˚C and 90˚F/32˚C,
there is no need to apply a correction. Refer to the
temperature correction table at the end of the manual.
Pin (insulated vs non-insulated) – The reference calibration of
the meter was made with non-insulated pins that penetrate
5/16 inch. Insulated pins read slightly lower than noninsulated ones. When using an electrode with insulated pins,
such as the 26-ES, refer to the correction at the end of the
manual.
TESTING WOOD
hSet the scale to #1 Wood
hAlign the contact pins
them into the wood to their full penetration, if possible. If
using an external electrode, attach it to the connector
and also align the pins parallel to the grain before driving
them into the wood.
hPress the read key
two seconds.
If the displayed reading is above the set-point value the setpoint buzzer will sound. Also, one of the LEDs on the front
panel will light up as follows:
Green - 6% to 15%Yellow - 15% to17%Red - > 17%
The LEDs are a visual aid to help quickly determine the
moisture level that each reading indicates. Readings that
activate the green light indicate a sufficiently dry moisture
level, those that activate the yellow light indicate a borderline
situation, and those that activate the red light indicate
material that is too wet for most appliations. Use the colorcoded ranges a a guideline. Specific applications may require
different MC thresholds.
Meter readings taken on construction-grade lumber material
can be taken at face value, without “corrections” for many
applications.
If your application requires a higher level of accuracy (ex.
finish flooring, furniture-making) Delmhorst recommends
applying the following corrections:
^ parallel to the grain and push
&
!. The meter displays the %MC for
Wood Scale #1
Species – Delmhorst uses Douglas Fir, the USDA standard, as
the basis for all wood calibrations. Because the electrical
characteristics of different species vary, all species read
differently at the same moisture content. For this reason, a
species correction is required. Refer to the species correction
table at the end of the manual.
Paint Failure and Moisture
Moisture is by far the most frequent cause of paint failure.
The key to preventing paint failure is to make certain that
moisture is not absorbed through the wood to the back of
the paint film. In order to insure quality paint jobs, wood
must remain dry after the application of paint.
Outdoor wood can be safely painted without danger of
peeling if the %MC is 15% or less. In drier climates, the
maximum reading should be 10% to 11%. Indoor wood
should be between 7% to 8% prior to painting.
The following conditions may cause high moisture content
in wood:
hLeaky gutters and down spouts
hLeaky pipes or condensation on cold water lines in attic
or hollow walls
hFaulty flashing around windows, doors and where porch
and dormer roofs meet sidings
hEnd-grain wood that is not sealed with paint at all joints
around windows, corners, and butt joints
hPorch columns that do not have good drainage and
ventilation where they rest on porch floors
hSiding or any other wood that is in contact with the
ground
6
7
hSiding and shingles without sufficient lap so that water is
forced up through cracks by wind pressure
hIce dams
hCondensation of vapor within hollow walls
EIFS (Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems)*
The LEDs are a visual aid to help quickly determine the
moisture level that each reading indicates. Readings that
activate the green light indicate a sufficiently dry moisture
level, those that activate the yellow light indicate a borderline
situation, and those that activate the red light indicate material
that is too wet for painting or wallpaper.
Moisture intrusion problems in EIFS (also known as
synthetic stucco) stem from leaking window frames,
improper use or lack of sealant, and faulty installation
of flashing.
If you suspect a problem take a visual inspection. Look for
gaps around windows, doors, airconditioning units, light
fixtures, hose bibs, dryer vents and other areas of potential
penetration. Also look for visible signs of water damage. If a
problem exists, use the BD-2100 with a #21-E electrode.
This electrode includes the #608 insulated pins that penetrate
3 1/4". Also available - #608/001 insulated pins with 6in.
penetration.
Procedure:
hUsing a drill or the available HP-1 hole punch, make 2
(1/4") holes about 3/4" apart at an upward 450 angle.
hPush the #21-E Electrode into the holes through the
polystyrene and into the substrate.
hSet the meter to the wood scale #1 if the sheathing is
plywood. If gypsum sheathing is used, refer to the
gypsum scale #3.
hPress read button
the display.
! and read the moisture content on
TESTING GYPSUM/DRYWALL
hSet the scale for #3 Gypsum (measures gypsum %MC over
the range of 0.2% - 50%).
hPush the contact pins
penetration, if possible.
hPress the read key
display. The meter displays the reading for 2 seconds.
The set-point buzzer will sound if the displayed reading is
above the set-point value. Also, one of the LEDs on the front
panel will light up as follows:
Green - 0% to 0.5%Yellow - 0.5 to 1%Red - > 1%
^ into the gypsum to their full
!, and read the moisture content on the
Gypsum Scale #3
USING THE 0-100
REFERENCE SCALE
When taking a reading on materials such as concrete, plaster,
or masonry, use Scale #2 to determine a qualitative reading.
Tests should be made on areas that are known to be dry,
followed by readings on areas that are wet. These readings
can be used as standard or reference points, against which
subsequent readings are compared. All readings should be
evaluated in the light of factors such as type of paint, floor
coverings, construction, and climatic conditions.
The set-point buzzer will sound if the displayed reading is
above the set-point value. Also one of the LEDs on the front
panel will light up as follows:
0 -100 Reference Scale #2
Green - 0-85Yellow - 85-95Red - >95
The LEDs are a visual aid to help quickly determine the
moisture level that each reading indicates. Readings that
activate the green light indicate a sufficiently dry moisture
level, those that activate the yellow light indicate a borderline
situation, and those that activate the red light indicate
material that is too wet for most applications.
Testing Plaster Walls
Undernormaldrying conditions and proper applicationof plaster
(sufficient drying time between coats), surface readings give accurate
results. However, if rapid drying occurs, the surface of the plaster
may be dry, but moisture isstill present below the surface andwill
eventually affect the paint or wallpaper. This condition occurswhen
thereis high temperatureor exceptionally good air circulation,or
wherebrown scratch and white coats are applied within a few
days.Take several readings on each wall. Pay special attention near
the base, around doorjambs, electricaland plumbing fixtures, and
other places where the plaster isthicker than normal.
Taking a Surface Reading:
hDrive the contact pins ^ into the plaster to their full
penetration, if possible.
hPress read key
! and read the meter.
8
9
Taking a Reading Below the Surface:
hDrive a pair of nails into the plaster at least 1/3 of the
total thickness of the plaster. If you are applying plaster
to a material of unknown dryness, such as brick or concrete, drive the nails through the plaster and into the
brick or concrete.
hTouch the heads of the nails with the contact pins
^ andread
the meter.
Testing Concrete Slabs for Flooring
Applications
Moisture meters are an effective tool to check comparative
moisture conditions in concrete slabs. They can tell you where
there may be excess moisture and help determine if you need to
conduct further testing, and identify specific areas on which
that testing should be performed. Meters do not provide
quantitave results as a basis for acceptance of a slab for
installation of moisture-sensitive flooring systems. ASTM Test
Method F2170 (RH using in situ probes), F1869 (calcium
chloride), and F2420 (RH on surface using insulated hood)
provide quantitative information for determining if moisture
levels are within specific limits.
It is important to test both the surface and mid-section of the
slab, especially if the slab is on or below grade. This will help
determine if there is continuous moisture migration toward
the surface. If this condition exists, the moisture movement
may be so slow that once it reaches the surface, moisture
evaporates and causes a “dry” reading when a surface test
is made.
However, if a sub-surface test is made, the meter may read
“wet” indicating the presence of moisture. When the slab is
covered and the upward movement of moisture continues, moisture
will move into a hygroscopic (wood) floor, or build-up pressure
under a non-breathing resilient floor, causing floor failure.
the green or “dry” area, the surface is dry. However,
subsurface tests should be made to verify if the slab is
dry throughout.
Subsurface Test:
hDrill two 1/4” holes, 3/4” apart and 1/2” to 2” deep.
hDrive the masonry nails into the bottom of the holes and
make the tests as described above. Nails must not touch
sides of drilled holes.
electrode
➝
➝
nails 1/8” into
6”
➝
concrete
slab
subsurface
If the meter still indicates green or “dry,” the floor should be
ready for covering. Tests should only be made in newly
drilled holes, since the inside surface of the holes can dry
out while the rest of the slab is still wet.
Even readings in the red or “wet” area can indicate
relatively low moisture content in concrete. For example,
readings in the 85-95 range on the reference scale indicate
approximately 2% to 4% moisture content.
Note: Perform minimum three tests for the first 1000 ft
and at least one additional test for each additional 1000
2
.
ft
Select test locations to provide information about moisture
distribution across the entire concrete slab, especially areas
of potential high moisture, or if the slab is thick (>4 in)
and air circulation is poor. For slabs on-grade and belowgrade, include a test location within 3 ft of each exterior
wall.
2-3” approx.
➝
➝
Drilled holes 1/4” diameter.
Nails 1/8” into concrete at
bottom of holes.
2
Taking a Surface Reading:
hDrive two hardened-steel masonry nails about 3/4"
apart into the finish coat of concrete slab. Drive them
about 1/8" deep so they make firm contact with the
concrete and do not move when touched.
hTouch the nails with the contact pins
hPress read key
! and read the meter. If
the meter reads in the red or “wet” area, it shows the
floor is not satisfactory for covering. If meter reads in
10
^ .
Key Factors to Consider:
hThe age of the slab. Wait at least 30 days after the slab
is laid before checking moisture content.
hIs the slab on grade or suspended? If the slab is on
grade, is there an effective vapor barrier under the slab?
hHow thick is the slab?
hWhat is the drainage condition of the ground?
hHistory of other structures in the area
11
Testing Brick or Concrete for Paint Application
Brick, stucco, or concrete surfaces must be dry at the time of
application and must remain dry after paint is applied or failure
of the paint film may occur. These materials are frequently
exposed to unusual moisture conditions that allow them to absorb
moisture through some exposed surface or some structural defect.
This is why it is important to check the moisture levels of the
brick or concrete when it has been exposed to conditions that
permit it to absorb moisture.
Procedure:
hDrive two hardened steel masonry nails about 3/4” apart into
the brick or concrete. Drive them about 1/4” deep so they
make firm contact and do not move when touched.
hTouch the nails with the contact pins
hPress read key
Normally, dry concrete or brick will read in the green or “dry”
portion of scale, indicating a safe condition to apply paint.
Meter readings should be evaluated in relation to otherfactors —
knowledge of the structure, type of paint used, expected weather
conditions in the near future, etc. Paint should not be applied if
readings are in the red or “wet” portion of the scale.
Do not be misled by surface appearance of masonry materials.
Short exposure to rain may thoroughly wet the surface while
the interior is still dry. In this instance, we recommend repeating
the test on the masonry below the surface as mentioned above.
! and read the meter.
^.
Key Areas to Check:
hThe rear side of brick parapet walls — generally are not
waterproof above the flashing line and frequently absorb
moisture during rains.
hPainted concrete floors on grade — subject to peeling as
they absorb moisture from the earth, unless an effective
vapor barrier has been installed.
Tests on these materials should be made a day or so after they
have been exposed to rain or other high moisture conditions to
verify to what extent they absorb moisture.
Tracing Leaks
The BD-2100 can help trace leaks in masonry material.
Normally, dry plaster, brick, or concrete will contain so little
moisture it cannot be detected by the meter. If the meter
indicates the presence of moisture you can trace the moisture
to its origin.
To trace the origin of a leak:
hDrive a nail intoan area that is known to be wet and attach an
insulated wire between the nail and one of the contact pins
hApplythe other pin to various parts of thewallwhereyou suspect
the leakoriginates.Ifthe meter indicates redor“wet”, the material
is wet between the points of contact.If the meter reads green or
“dry”, thematerial along this lineis not in the path of a leak.
To confirm if a brick wall is waterproof:
Performthe following procedure after storms to verify if a brick wall
iswaterproof, or if waterproofing repairshave beenproperly performed:
hDrive pairs of nails into the brick wherever it is necessary to
make the tests and leave them in place until after all the tests are
completed.
hTake readings after each storm, and recordthe readings. The
pattern of these readings will indicate if the brick is gradually
drying outor is moistened again by each storm.
^.
Detecting Moisture in Insulation
Use the BD-2100 with the #21-E Electrode and #608
insulated pins to detect moisture in insulation. These pins
penetrate 3 1/4" and are insulated, except at the tips. Only
the uninsulated tips make contact with the material,
providing information as to the depth at which moisture is
present. Also available - #608/001 insulated pins with 6"
penetration.
Procedure:
hDrill two 3/16" diameter holes, one inch apart through
the siding or drywall.
hUsing the #21-E, insert the #608 contact pins into the
holes so that you make contact with the insulation.
hPress the read key
various depths of penetration to determine the location of
moisture.
hSeal holes with an appropriate filler at the conclusion
of the test.
Meter readings provide a qualitative indication of the
presence of moisture. Meters are not calibrated to read the
percentage of moisture content in the insulation. The meter
may also help identify the pattern of distribution to help
you determine if moisture is due to condensation or
leakage.
! and take a reading. Take readings at
12
13
The presence of moisture in insulating material greatly
reduces its insulating properties. If the insulating material
absorbs moisture, water will displace the air in the material.
Water also transmits heat at a faster rate than air, thus
reducing the efficiency of the insulation.
Side walls and roof insulation pick up moisture because
of leaks in the roof or structural defects in the side walls
which allow storm water to be forced in during high
wind. During periods of cold weather, vapor will condense
as it approaches the colder area near the outside walls,
and resulting moisture will remain trapped in the insulation.
Cork, wood fiber boards, and other cellulose material read
lower than glass wool and other inorganic types of insulation.
CARE OF YOUR METER
To keep your meter in good working order:
hStore your meter in a clean, dry place. The protective
carrying case provided is an ideal storage place when the
meter is not in use.
hChange the 9-Volt battery as needed. Continued use with a
low battery may cause the meter to go out of calibration.
hChange contact pins as needed. Keep pin retainers hand
tightened.
hClean the meter and contact pins with any biodegradable
cleaner. Use the cleaner sparingly and on external parts
only. Keep cleaner out of the external connector
hRemove the battery if the meter will not be used for one
Delmhorst Instrument Co., referred to hereafter as
Delmhorst, guarantees its BD-2100 meter for one year from
date of purchase and any optional electrodes against defects
in material or workmanship for 90 days. If, within the
warranty period, you find any defect in material or workmanship
return the meter following the instructions in the Service forYour Meter section. This limited warranty does not cover
abuse, alteration, misuse, damage during shipment, improper
service, unauthorized or unreasonable use of the meter or
electrodes. This warranty does not cover batteries or contact
pins. If the meter or any optional electrodes have been
tampered with, the warranty shall be void. At our option, we
may replace or repair the meter.
Delmhorst shall not be liable for incidental or consequential
damages for the breach of any express or implied warranty
with respect to this product or its calibration. With proper
care and maintenance the meter should stay in calibration;
follow the instructions in the Care of Your Meter section.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL DELMHORST BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY TYPE
WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
LOST PROFITS OR DOWNTIME ARISING OUT OF OR
RELATED IN ANY RESPECT TO ITS METERS OR
ELECTRODES AND NO OTHER WARRANTY, WRITTEN,
ORAL OR IMPLIED APPLIES. DELMHORST SHALL IN
NO EVENT BE LIABLE FOR ANY BREACH OF
WARRANTY OR DEFECT IN THIS PRODUCT THAT
EXCEEDS THE AMOUNT OF PURCHASE OF THIS
PRODUCT.
The express warranty set forth above constitutes the entire
warranty with respect to Delmhorst meters and electrodes
and no other warranty, written, oral, or implied applies. This
warranty is personal to the customer purchasing the product
and is not transferable.