What is the primary function of moisture meters in mold assessment?

The primary function of moisture meters in mold assessment is to measure the moisture content in building materials. Mold growth is highly dependent on moisture; thus, understanding the moisture levels within materials such as wood, drywall, and other construction elements is crucial for assessing the potential for mold growth. High moisture levels may indicate an environment conducive to mold proliferation, allowing assessors to pinpoint areas at risk and implement remediation strategies before mold becomes a significant problem. By accurately measuring moisture content, professionals can determine whether moisture intrusion has occurred and how it may be affecting the overall health of a building.

While detecting air quality and assessing surface temperatures are important aspects of environmental assessments, they don't directly relate to the immediate focus of mold growth, which fundamentally requires the presence of moisture in materials. Identifying mold species also does not fall under the purview of moisture meters, as they are specifically designed to measure moisture levels rather than biological agents.