Concrete floor coating installations for most materials, including epoxies, tile and carpeting, require the base surface (substrate) be free of excessive moisture. For this reason, moisture tests are performed to ensure that any presence of moisture be within the manufacturers’ tolerance levels. If excessive moisture is present, it will eventually cause failure to the various concrete floor coatings. We recommend that you have a moisture test performed by a qualified independent firm to determine if there is an adequate vapor barrier under the concrete slab. If excessive moisture levels are present there are moisture mitigation products that should be applied as a base to the floor.
TMC has installed several moisture mitigation systems and can assist you with determining the appropriate products to install.
Symptoms of Excessive Moisture Levels
Some common symptoms that indicate a high moisture level may include:
- Delamination
- White staining
- Rust staining
- Bubbles
- Pealing patches
- Pinholes
- Slippery liquid originating through the floor
Solutions
Adding a moisture mitigation system when it is apparent that excessive moisture levels are present may add cost to your new floor but these systems are required by most manufacturers and are essential to achieving a successful installation. Failure to mitigate excessive moisture levels may lead to a failing floor and create additional expenses in the future and/or void the manufacturer’s warranty. Having TMC install the systems as certified installers may qualify your floor an extended manufacturer’s warranty of up to ten years.
We welcome any questions that you may have regarding moisture mitigation systems and can review your needs in order to complete a successful installation of the various resinous coatings.