Page 6 - 2017-12-CFR Volume 111 - How Many Types of Moisture Tests - December 2017

can’t see it.

THERE IS NO MAGIC BULLETT

Another important factor that’s rearing its head lately is adhesive being touted as moisture proof or moisture re-
sistant. Understand that nothing in the flooring industry is “proof” anything. There are materials that are unaffect-
ed by moisture, adhesives in the acrylic and urethane category for example, but they don’t stop moisture and
aren’t moisture barriers. Two things you don’t stop are moisture in vapor form and air. Even though the adhesive
may not be affected the material installed on it may be. The other fact is that silicate based moisture barriers, in
the concrete pour or topically applied, don’t stop moisture vapor either. They may stop water which is fine if your
building a dam but not moisture in vapor form. All you have to do is look at the cross section of a core taken from
concrete with a silicate to see that there are open channels that allow moisture vapor to migrate upward. These
materials may also raise the ph of the concrete adding to further potential compromises. There is no magic bullet
in the market place that is 100% effective against moisture in concrete that may cause a flooring installation or
material failure. There is technology available that will allow certain flooring materials to perform in the hostile en-
vironment of moisture without having to stop the moisture - kind of like a harmonious co-existence.

Remember this, and I’ve stated it several times in this newsletter, words do not change the laws of physics, alter
science, negate chemistry or subvert the laws of nature. Only God can do that and He’s not in the flooring indus-
try.

So you’re not paranoid, there are things that can certainly help you avoid flooring failures from moisture or other
compromising conditions and there’s always an answer and a reason for a flooring failure and a path to resolution.
We can help you on both ends of the spectrum. It’s what we do and we’re the best at it. If you have a question or
need help contact us – preferably before you’re in trouble.

6 Commercial Flooring Report December 2017