Even the most carefully poured flooring can have unacceptable rates of moisture emission from epoxy floor coatings, which can undermine the integrity of existing floor coatings or make it impossible to install new epoxy flooring that will withstand the moisture levels.

What are the steps I should take before moving ahead with installation of an epoxy coating?

The most important and prudent measure to take before installing a floor coating system is to take a measurement of the moisture vapor emission rate (MVER).

How do I measure the amount of moisture vapor emission from epoxy floor coatings coming from my concrete flooring?

The two main tests to determine the MVER are the calcium chloride test and the relative humidity test.

1. The first method involves the placement of pre-weighed calcium chloride containers sealed with plastic coverings at 1,000 square-foot intervals. The calcium chloride crystals in the container are weighed again after 72 hours to determine the amount of moisture that has been absorbed.
2. The second method requires drilling holes in the substrate and inserting probes to measure the levels of moisture below the surface of the flooring. This second method is perhaps the better of the two and provides a more accurate assessment of the true level of moisture at a deeper level.

My concrete flooring was installed years ago. Why would I have vapor emission problems now?

Moisture issues can occur with both old and newly installed concrete. If concrete formulations had too much water, or if the concrete wasn’t properly cured, it doesn’t matter that the flooring has been in place for a long time. Another factor that can contribute to higher levels of moisture vapor emission is the water table in the region. Certain areas of the country with higher water tables may result in higher moisture emission levels coming from your flooring

What are the effects of high moisture vapor transmission on my epoxy coating?

Concrete flooring that has been sealed using epoxy coating without first being tested for moisture vapor emission levels may require mitigation and repair down the road. The moisture will eventually undermine the surface treatment, resulting in cracking, chipping and – ultimately a total breakdown of the entire coating.

What is the next step after I have determined the level of moisture vapor emission in my flooring?

There are many products and processes available that will mitigate the moisture level issues in your concrete flooring prior to the installation of your epoxy coating. Working with a team of professional flooring installation specialists will ensure that your flooring is properly treated and the right coating technique is applied that will protect your investment. The techniques used by the experts at Performance Industrial include captive metal shot-blasting, vacuum diamond grinding, sanding, scarification and hand-diamond grinding. Based on the unique situation and requirements of your flooring needs, the team will work together to determine which remediation solutions will be the most effective and what coatings will offer the longest life for your concrete floor. Call (518) 793-9274 to learn more about moisture vapor emission from epoxy floor coatings, and how we can improve your commercial or industrial flooring to improve safety, appearance, and longevity. Related Posts:

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