The Importance of Moisture Testing of Concrete Subfloors
2 min read
In commercial buildings, concrete flooring that has absorbed too much moisture can be a major source of expensive repairs and potentially safety issues. If you want your concrete floors to last and perform as intended, you must conduct regular moisture testing and take corrective action as needed. This article will discuss the value of moisture testing and repair for commercial concrete floors and offer advice on how to effectively deal with moisture problems.
The only way to find out whether your concrete flooring has too much moisture is to have them properly tested. Concrete moisture can be tested in a number of ways.
Test for calcium chloride
Often used to determine the concrete’s moisture content is the calcium chloride test. The amount of moisture absorbed by the concrete is measured after a measured amount of calcium chloride is sprinkled onto its surface.
RH Measurements
Testing the relative humidity (RH) of the air inside the concrete is done with an instrument called a moisture meter. The moisture content of the concrete and the air around it can both be determined with this test.
Testing for moisture vapor emissions from concrete
Advanced testing can be done by measuring the amount of moisture vapor emitted from the concrete, a process known as moisture vapor emission (MVE) testing. It is common practice to combine the results of this test with those of other moisture analyses in order to achieve a more accurate reading of the concrete’s moisture level.
What happens when water settles on concrete
Because of its porous structure, concrete can hold onto and absorb moisture. Although a certain amount of moisture in concrete is expected, excessive moisture can cause a number of issues.
Impact on the quality of inside air
Mold and mildew, which thrive in damp environments like those found in buildings, can have a significant effect on the quality of the air we breathe. The spores produced by mold and mildew can irritate the respiratory system and cause other difficulties if they are breathed in.
Wear and tear on flooring materials
Flooring materials laid on top of concrete floors are vulnerable to harm from moisture. Over time, the expansion and contraction of wood causes hardwood, laminate, and other wood-based floors to buckle and warp. There’s a risk that carpets and other fabrics will fade or start to smell musty.
Loss of structure
Water accumulation in concrete can also weaken the material’s foundation. Although concrete is durable, it can weaken or crack if exposed to too much moisture for too long. It’s a potential threat to safety and may necessitate expensive maintenance if this persists.
The health and functionality of your commercial concrete floors depend on regular concrete floor moisture test. You can save money and make sure your workplace is safe and healthy by checking for moisture levels on a regular basis and fixing any problems you find.
