CMA CMA Equipment & Tools

Question 1

What does a pin-type moisture meter measure, and what is its primary limitation?

Accepted Answer

It measures electrical resistance between two pins to estimate moisture content; limited to the depth the pins penetrate

Answer

It measures surface temperature; limited by reflectivity of materials

Answer

It measures relative humidity in the air space behind a wall; limited by access requirements

Answer

It measures total water vapor in a material; limited by requiring laboratory calibration

Question 2

What is the primary advantage of a non-invasive (pinless) moisture meter over a pin-type meter during a mold inspection?

Accepted Answer

Pinless meters can scan large areas quickly without damaging surfaces, allowing rapid screening

Answer

Pinless meters are more accurate at measuring moisture in concrete

Answer

Pinless meters can measure moisture through metal barriers

Answer

Pinless meters provide a reading in percent relative humidity

Question 3

What does a thermal imaging (infrared) camera detect that makes it valuable for mold assessments?

Accepted Answer

Temperature differentials on surfaces that may indicate moisture or evaporative cooling

Answer

Mold spore concentration in air

Answer

The species of mold present in a wall cavity

Answer

Structural weakness in building materials caused by mold degradation

Question 4

Which type of air sampling pump setting is most critical to verify before collecting a mold air sample?

Accepted Answer

Calibrated flow rate matching the sample media manufacturer's specification

Answer

Battery charge level

Answer

Operating temperature of the pump motor

Answer

The pump's noise level rating

Question 5

What is the function of a borescope (inspection camera) in a mold assessment?

Accepted Answer

To visually inspect concealed spaces (wall cavities, pipe chases) with minimal invasive access

Answer

To measure spore concentrations inside wall cavities

Answer

To measure relative humidity inside enclosed cavities

Answer

To collect air samples from behind finished surfaces

Question 6

What does a psychrometer (sling or digital) measure that is directly relevant to mold growth risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

Wet-bulb and dry-bulb temperature, used to calculate relative humidity and dew point

Answer

Surface moisture content of building materials

Answer

Airborne mold spore concentration

Answer

CO2 levels as a proxy for ventilation adequacy