Concrete may appear dry at the surface while still containing or transmitting enough moisture to affect a commercial flooring installation. Moisture-related problems can include adhesive breakdown, flooring movement, bubbles, staining, odor, alkalinity-related damage, and loss of bond. These failures may not become visible immediately and can develop after the building is occupied. Testing should be completed using methods appropriate for the flooring, adhesive, and project specifications. The results must then be compared with the limits established by the flooring and adhesive manufacturers. When moisture levels exceed permitted limits, the project may require additional drying time, a moisture-mitigation system, a different adhesive, or another approved installation approach. Testing does not eliminate moisture, but it provides information needed to design an appropriate flooring system.

Key considerations

  • concrete moisture testing flooring
  • commercial flooring moisture test
  • moisture before glue-down flooring
  • concrete slab moisture
  • concrete moisture testing
  • moisture barrier flooring
Ask an Expert