What is a bad moisture reading

What is a bad moisture reading?

A bad moisture reading for a boat is anything above 12 to 14 percent. This indicates that your boat has too much moisture and is likely to develop problems such as rot, mold, and mildew.

Indicators of a bad moisture reading:

• Musty or Mildew smell.
• Dark, moldy areas on decks, floorboards, hull interior, or bilge.
• Soft or spongy wood.
• Water dripping or seeping in during rain or while washing the boat.
• Moisture readings of 12% or higher on a moisture meter.

If you suspect your boat has a moisture problem, it's important to take action immediately to prevent further damage.