Concrete Moisture Testing: Your Key to Successful Flooring Installations

When it comes to laying floors over concrete, knowing the moisture content of the concrete slab in question is crucial. Concrete is porous by nature and can retain moisture for an extended time, even after being set. 


This paper takes a closer look at the importance of concrete moisture testing, various methods used, and how these practices will lead to the successful flooring outcome.

The Importance of Concrete Moisture Testing

Testing the moisture in concrete is usually imperative to ensure the flooring material has good adhesion and will last longer. Too much moisture may give rise to a number of problems, including:

  • Adhesive breakdown of finished floor coverings
  • Debonding of coatings
  • Osmotic blisters in epoxy systems
  • Growth of microbes like mold or mildew.

These issues not only cause expensive repairs but can also void the warranty provided on many flooring products. Due to this fact, concrete moisture testing should be done extensively before concrete is laid.

Understanding Concrete Slump Test

Before one begins with moisture testing, he first has to understand what the slump test is; it is a measure of the workability of fresh concrete. Slump cone test of concrete involves filling a cone-shaped mold with concrete and then removing it to observe how much the concrete slumps or settles. This helps to ensure that the right consistency of the concrete mix is met for proper placement and compaction.

What is slump test concrete? It is a method of testing the fluidity or workability of the concrete mix. The performance or behavior of concrete during installation depends on its workability.

Why slump test? To avoid defects in the finished structure, proper workability is necessary.

Methods of Concrete Moisture Testing

Moisture test of concrete is done by various methods. Each of these methods has certain advantages and disadvantages:

  • Calcium Chloride Test: While this was once the traditional method for testing, today it has several drawbacks when trying to accurately find moisture migration at shallow depths in modern applications. 
  • Hand-held Moisture Meters: These allow quick overviews but often provide only an inch of penetration in the slab, proving unsuitable for comprehensive surveys.
  • RH Testing: It is a method that involves the use of in-situ probes for measuring the moisture levels deep in the slab. The RH testing has been recommended in the ASTM F2170 standards due to its correct representation of the slab's moisture conditions over time.

The Rapid RH L6 system simplifies this process with an advanced tool that enables the user to have fast and accurate readings after the initial equilibration period.

Best Practices for Successful Flooring Installations

Following are some best practices that can help avoid costly mistakes in flooring installation:

  • Moisture testing before installation, if possible.
  • Allow the drying of new slabs, which may be longer than perceived by environmental conditions.
  • Apply a vapor barrier to limit moisture transmission when installing flooring over concrete. 

Conclusion

Testing the moisture in concrete isn't just some formality; it is one of the vital keys that ensure successful flooring installations. Application of best practice and reliable test methods, like RH testing, prevents the contractor from getting into common pitfalls due to excess moisture in concrete.

For those looking for expert assistance in concrete testing services, consider partnering with Prime Test Engineering. Their comprehensive approach ensures that your flooring projects are completed successfully and without unnecessary delays caused by moisture-related issues.

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