When you think about remodeling your bathroom, you probably picture tubs, tile patterns, colors, or the dream walk-in shower you’ve been waiting for.

But before any of that takes shape, there’s one step that matters more than homeowners realize: The moisture meter test.

It’s quick, non-invasive, and takes less than a minute—yet it tells us more about your bathroom’s health than anything we could see with the naked eye. At Five Star Bath Solutions, we start every consultation with this test because it protects your home, your investment, and your peace of mind.

Here’s why.

What Is a Moisture Meter Test?

A moisture meter is a small, handheld tool that measures the amount of water hiding behind your bathroom walls, under your flooring, or around your tub or shower.
 

It detects:

• Moisture trapped behind the tile.
• Water leaks inside the walls.
• Damp insulation or drywall.
• Subfloor damage you can’t see.
• The early stages of mold.
• Areas where waterproofing has failed.
  

It’s a simple test, but the insight it gives is huge.
 

And most homeowners never get this level of visibility during a typical remodeling estimate.

What the Test Can Reveal (That You Can’t See)

Bathrooms often hide problems until they become unavoidable (or expensive). A moisture meter helps catch them early. See: What’s Lurking Behind Your Shower Walls?

• Hidden Leaks: Water can seep behind old tile, worn grout, or loose caulk long before any stains or soft spots appear.
• Mold-Causing Moisture: If you’ve smelled something musty but can’t find the source, the moisture meter points directly to the trouble spot.
• Failing Tile Showers: Older tile showers absorb water over time. The meter can show how saturated the walls and backer board have become.
• Subfloor Deterioration: Moisture under your shower or tub often indicates that the floor beneath is softening or rotting.
• Whether the Remodel Is Optional—or Urgent: Some homeowners simply want an update. Others need a remodel because water damage is already spreading.

The moisture meter clearly guides those decisions.

Why Five Star Bath Solutions Always Uses a Moisture Meter

Most companies skip this step. We don’t. Here’s why we believe it belongs at the beginning of every remodel conversation:

1. We Want You to See the Truth—Not Guess

A moisture meter provides objective, visual, real-time evidence. You see the reading right on the screen.

There’s no “trust us.” There’s no guessing. There’s no pressure. Just facts.

2. It Helps Us Recommend What You Really Need

When we know what’s happening behind the walls, we can make the right recommendation—nothing more, nothing less.

Sometimes the meter shows everything is perfectly dry. In that case, great! Your bathroom is in good shape, and you can choose upgrades just because you want them.

Sometimes the meter shows hidden moisture that needs attention. That doesn’t mean you’re in trouble—it just means we can tailor the remodel to truly fix the problem.

Either way, the moisture meter keeps the consultation honest and helpful.

3. It Helps Prevent Future Problems

Our systems are built to be waterproof, long-lasting, and low-maintenance—but if the structure behind your bathroom is already compromised, we need to know before installing new materials.

A moisture meter test ensures:

• Stronger long-term results.
• Fewer surprises during installation.
• A fully protected and properly sealed remodel.
• Peace of mind for years to come
  

It’s part of delivering a remodel that isn’t just beautiful—it’s built to last.

4. It Shows Homeowners That We Take Their Home Seriously

The moisture meter test says something important: We care about your home’s health, not just about getting the job. This test is about doing things right from the start—protecting your investment, ensuring transparency, and giving you answers you can trust.

What Can Homeowners Learn From the Test?

Here are a few common findings: “My tile shower looks fine—but the wall behind it is soaked.” This is incredibly common with aging grout lines. Homeowners often choose to remodel sooner after seeing the moisture readings.

“The musty smell isn’t normal—there really is moisture under the tub.” Once we show them the reading, it suddenly makes sense.

“Everything is dry! I thought it might be worse.” Many homeowners feel relieved and move forward confidently knowing they’re not dealing with hidden damage.

Each situation is different—what matters is getting the truth upfront.

What Happens If Moisture Is Found?

If the reading is elevated, here’s what we do:

1. Show you the reading and explain what it means: No jargon—just simple, clear information.
2. Identify the source of the moisture: Whether it’s old tile, plumbing, grout, or shower pan issues.
3. Recommend a solution only if it's necessary: You’re in control, not pressured.
4. Design a remodel that prevents it from returning: Our waterproof systems, grout-free walls, and sealed installations stop future water damage in its tracks.
   

You get clarity. You get options. You stay in charge.

Why This Test Matters Especially in Winter

Moisture problems often get worse during colder months due to:

• Heavy holiday shower usage.
• Less ventilation.
• Condensation buildup.
• Cold surfaces meeting warm steam.
• Slower evaporation.
  

December is one of the best times to catch issues early—before they become bigger (and more expensive).

The Five Star Difference: A Remodel That Starts With Understanding

We don’t believe in “sales calls.”  We believe in helpful, informative consultations that put homeowners first.

The moisture meter test:

• Builds trust.
• Answers hidden questions.
• Protects your home.
• Sets the stage for a remodel that lasts.
• Makes you feel confident about your options
  

It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Ready to See What’s Going On Behind Your Bathroom Walls?

Schedule your free, no-pressure consultation, and your Five Star Bath Solutions expert will perform a moisture meter test at your very first visit.

You’ll get:

• Clear answers.
• A simple explanation.
• Honest recommendations.
• Options that fit your needs.
  

No guessing. No pressure. Just real insight about your bathroom. Start with the test. End with a bathroom you’ll love.

FAQs: Your Questions About the Moisture Meter Test—Answered

What exactly is a moisture meter test?

A moisture meter test uses a small handheld tool to measure how much moisture is hiding behind your bathroom walls, under your flooring, or around your tub or shower. It helps detect leaks, mold risk, and water damage you can’t see.

Why does Five Star Bath Solutions include this test in every consultation?

Because it gives you clear, honest information. The moisture meter shows real-time readings so you can see what’s happening behind the walls—no guessing, no pressure, just facts.

Does the moisture meter test cost anything?

No. It’s completely free and included in every consultation. We believe homeowners deserve to understand their bathroom’s condition before discussing any remodeling options.

What kinds of problems can the moisture meter reveal?

It can identify hidden leaks, failing grout or tile, damp drywall, mold-causing moisture, deteriorating subfloors, and areas where waterproofing has broken down.

Will the test damage my walls or tile?

Not at all. The test is non-invasive and takes less than a minute. The device simply touches the surface and provides a reading.

What happens if the meter shows moisture behind my shower or tub?

We’ll show you the reading, explain what it means in simple terms, identify where the moisture is coming from, and outline your options. You’re always in control—no upselling or pressure.

Do all bathrooms with moisture need a full remodel?

Not necessarily. Sometimes the moisture level is small and contained. Other times, the damage is more serious. The moisture meter helps determine whether repairs are optional or urgent.

Why is this test especially important during winter?

Cold weather increases condensation, slows evaporation, and puts more strain on bathrooms due to holiday guests and heavier shower use. Hidden moisture problems often get worse in winter, making this the best time to check.

How does this test help with the remodeling process?

It helps us recommend the right solution for your bathroom. If everything is dry, you can remodel with confidence. If moisture is present, we can design a waterproof, long-lasting installation that prevents future issues.

What if the moisture meter shows everything is dry?

That’s great news! You can move forward knowing your bathroom is healthy. Many homeowners feel relieved and excited to focus on design, comfort, and upgrades rather than hidden repairs.