<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation:  General Requirements > Testing

Refer to the manufacturer’s written instructions for guidelines regarding allowable moisture and pH limits for their products. The Moisture Vapor Emission Rate, Relative Humidity & Alkalinity testing must be performed to give an accurate assessment of the concrete condition and the test results/data of each test shall be within acceptable limits.

 

Before direct glue-down, double-glue down, free floating carpet tile systems and some stretch-in installations, the owner or general contractor, or their designated testing agent, is required to submit to the flooring contractor a written report on the moisture and alkalinity conditions of the concrete substrates.  

 

Proper testing is essential for a successful installation and any deviation from these industry accepted test methods often results in an installation failure and may void manufacturers’ warranties.

 

NOTE:  It is recommended that qualified independent third-party testing agencies be used for determining moisture and alkalinity conditions of a concrete slab.  Testing by an independent third party specialist to determine installation suitability is a prudent and necessary safeguard for general contractors, owners, architects, flooring product providers and installation contractors to reduce the risk of concrete slab moisture related flooring problems.  As a minimum, testing agencies or individuals are required to demonstrate verifiable experience in concrete moisture testing or be certified by a recognized organization.