How to Ensure the Accuracy of Moisture Measurements

ARCHITECTS

The drying time of a concrete slab is a concern for any building project, even at the design level. But by specifying the most reliable method for concrete moisture measurement, you can preserve the integrity of the building envelope throughout the project.

Moisture infiltration due to inadequate below-slab vapor retarders, improperly flashed windows or doors, poor drainage, or inappropriate roofing materials and penetrations can spell demise for the entire project. As an experienced architect, you know to design the building envelope with regard to how each aspect will interact with concrete drying times.

Here's how to make sure you will receive the most accurate moisture readings during that process.

CONTRACTORS

When building begins, the stress of staying on schedule can be ever-present. But it's imperative for contractors to keep in mind that concrete drying time is a key factor in the ultimate success of the project, and the right degree of flexibility must be considered during scheduling to accommodate the readiness of the slab.

To ensure that the construction schedule is based on the most reliable moisture readings possible, it’s important to know what’s behind each standard and how its accuracy is determined.

INSTALLERS

One of the major killers of a successful flooring installation is excessive moisture in the concrete slab—even if the moisture level had already been tested. This kind of issue can often go undetected until the flooring products fail.

Knowing that you walk onto a job already having to rely on the workmanship of others can often make installation more challenging. As a quality flooring professional, you want to be able to minimize risk and liability by ensuring the concrete slab is at the appropriate moisture level for the flooring materials specified.

Here's how to make certain you are working with the most accurate moisture reading possible.

PROJECT OWNERS

It's not uncommon to experience delays in the effective date of occupancy due to concrete drying times. While it may seem costly and inconvenient to push back occupancy dates, it is far more costly to deal with flooring failures and occupant displacement.

To make sure this type of flooring catastrophe doesn't happen in your building, there are time-tested standards that dictate proper moisture level measurement. But these standards aren't created equal. The methods in which concrete moisture is measured vary greatly.

Let's make sure you request the most dependable method for determining safe moisture levels in the concrete slabs in your building.