Making sure the deck’s ready for underlayment—what’s your process?

I get the appeal of moisture meters, but honestly, I still trust my gut (and a handful of paper towels). Maybe it’s old-school, but I’ve had more issues with overthinking than with actual moisture. Sometimes those gadgets just make me second-guess what’s already obvious.

I’m right there with you—sometimes I just poke around with my finger and if it feels dry, I call it good. My “high-tech” method is laying down a few paper towels and seeing if they come up damp. If they’re dry after an hour or two, I figure the deck’s ready for underlayment. Maybe not scientific, but hey, it’s worked so far... except that one time I rushed it and had to redo a patch. Lesson learned: trust your gut, but don’t ignore soggy towels.

I get the temptation to just go by feel—sometimes it really does seem dry enough. I’ve had a few close calls though, especially after a humid week. Your towel trick’s better than nothing, honestly. Just wish there was a foolproof way that didn’t involve fancy meters or waiting forever.

Just wish there was a foolproof way that didn’t involve fancy meters or waiting forever.

If you’re not keen on moisture meters, you might try the old plastic wrap test. Tape down a square of plastic overnight—if there’s condensation in the morning, it’s still too wet. Not perfect, but it’s saved me from rushing things after a stretch of muggy weather. Curious—do you guys ever sand the surface lightly to speed things up, or does that just make more work?

- Love the plastic wrap trick. Simple, and you don’t need to buy anything extra.
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Curious—do you guys ever sand the surface lightly to speed things up, or does that just make more work?