Moisture Meters
Moisture Meters | Storm Damage Restoration | Roofing | Kingston
When high winds whip off Lake Ontario and torrential rains pound Kingston, even the toughest shingles can hide leaks that threaten your attic, insulation, and wiring. HEP’s certified technicians arrive with precision moisture meters that read what the eye can’t see—pinpointing trapped water before mold or rot set in. Our team documents every finding with real-time digital reports, then guides you through the insurance maze so repairs start fast and end right the first time.
From emergency tarping and debris removal to full structural drying and shingle replacement, we handle every step of storm damage restoration with the same care we’d give our own homes. Expect clear communication, fair estimates, and crews who respect your property as much as the historic limestone landmarks that make Kingston special. When the next storm rolls through, know that HEP is ready 24/7 to protect your roof and everything beneath it.
FAQs
Why is a moisture-meter inspection crucial after a storm damages my Kingston roof?
Kingston’s frequent wind-driven rain and snowstorms can force water under shingles, around flashings, and into the attic structure. A calibrated moisture meter lets us measure the exact percentage of water in decking, insulation, and framing without removing large sections of material. By identifying elevated readings early (usually anything above 15-17 % for wood), we can prevent mold growth, rot, and costly structural repairs that might not become visible until months later.
What kinds of moisture meters do your technicians use during a roofing and storm-damage assessment?
We carry both non-invasive (capacitance/impedance) meters and pin-type meters. The non-invasive meters glide over shingles, EPDM, or modified bitumen to scan ¾" to 1 ½" deep, revealing broad wet areas without puncturing the roof. Pin-type meters have insulated electrodes that we insert into decking or exposed framing to obtain precise point-specific readings. Using both tools together provides a full picture—rapid surface scanning followed by targeted depth verification.
How do you locate hidden moisture that is trapped behind drywall or under insulation?
After the initial roof scan, we trace any elevated readings indoors. Non-invasive wall scanners and pin-type probes are used on ceilings, knee walls, and attic joists. We also employ thermal imaging cameras that reveal temperature anomalies caused by evaporative cooling around wet areas. Correlating infrared images with moisture-meter data pinpoints the exact cavity that’s wet, so we only open up the minimal section necessary for drying and repairs.
Can documented moisture-meter readings help with my storm-damage insurance claim?
Absolutely. Insurance adjusters often need objective proof that water intrusion occurred and caused material damage. Our technicians record each moisture reading, location, and timestamp in a digital report, accompanied by photos or IR images. This documentation shows the scope and severity of the moisture, supporting your claim for roof replacement, interior drywall repair, or mold remediation. Many Kingston homeowners find that detailed meter data speeds up approvals and ensures a fair settlement.
How soon after a storm should I schedule a moisture survey?
Call as soon as you notice missing shingles, ceiling stains, or leaks—ideally within 24-72 hours of the event. The longer water sits in wood or insulation, the deeper it migrates and the harder it becomes to dry. Early detection keeps restoration costs low and reduces the likelihood of secondary issues like mold, which can begin growing in as little as 48 hours under high humidity.
Will the moisture inspection damage my roof or home interior?
No. Our default method uses non-invasive scanners that leave roofing and finished surfaces intact. If pin-type readings are required, we select discreet areas—such as existing nail holes, attic decking, or unfinished framing—so any micro-punctures are hidden or easily sealed. When drywall must be opened for verification or drying, we cut small, clean access points that can be patched the same day. The goal is accurate diagnosis with minimal disruption to your property.