ASTM D4444-92(1998)e1 - 10.10.1998
 
1. Scope

1.1 These test methods apply to the measurement of moisture content of solid wood, including veneer, and wood products containing additives, that is, chemicals or adhesives (subject to conditions in 6.4 and 9.4). They also provide guidelines for meter use and calibration by manufacturers and users as alternatives to ovendry measurements.

1.2 Conductance and dielectric meters are not necessarily equivalent in their readings under the same conditions. When these test methods are referenced, it is assumed that either type of meter is acceptable unless otherwise specified. Both types of meters are to be calibrated with respect to moisture content on an oven-dry mass basis as determined by Test Methods D4442.

1.3 The method title indicates the procedures and uses for each type of meter:

Section Method A Conductance Meters 5 to 7 Method B Dielectric Meters 8 to 10

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

 
2. Referenced Documents

D4442-20(2025)

Standard Test Methods for Direct Moisture Content Measurement of Wood and Wood-Based Materials

D2915-25

Standard Practice for Sampling and Data-Analysis for Structural Wood and Wood-Based Products

D4933-16(2026)

Standard Guide for Moisture Conditioning of Wood and Wood-Based Materials

D5536-17(2023)

Standard Practice for Sampling Forest Trees for Determination of Clear Wood Properties

D7438-20(2025)

Standard Practice for Field Calibration and Application of Hand-Held Moisture Meters

ASTM Standards on Precision and Bias for Various Applications,

1992

D1990-26a

Standard Practice for Establishing Allowable Properties for Visually-Graded Dimension Lumber from In-Grade Tests of Full-Size Specimens (Includes all amendments and changes 8/25/2026).