What is the ideal moisture content percentage for unaffected areas of drywall that could still indicate potential issues?

The ideal moisture content for unaffected areas of drywall is typically around 12%. This percentage serves as a benchmark to help identify potential moisture problems. When drywall is exposed to moisture, it becomes susceptible to mold growth and structural damage. A moisture content at or below 12% suggests that the material is in a reasonably dry state, whereas readings above this level may indicate that there is a moisture intrusion or potential watermark issues on the drywall.

In contrast, lower percentages, such as 8% or 10%, may not raise immediate red flags but could still warrant investigation depending on the environmental conditions and surrounding materials. Moisture content above 12% is often concerning, as it suggests that the material could support microbial growth and other issues if left unaddressed. Therefore, using 12% as the threshold helps professionals in the industry apply proper measures to assess and mitigate potential moisture issues before they escalate.