A simple moisture meter, available at most hardware stores, is a great tool for detecting hidden moisture that isn’t obvious to the eye. If you have one, use it to scan along walls, tile surfaces, and baseboards adjacent to the shower.

Here’s how to use it:

• Set the meter to the correct material setting (wood, drywall, etc.).
• Test a known dry area first to get a baseline reading.
• Press the meter against suspect areas and look for elevated readings.

Normal moisture content for drywall is generally below 15%. Readings higher than 17–20% may indicate a hidden moisture problem that needs further evaluation. Document any areas with elevated moisture so they can be properly assessed before you proceed.