Moisture-related flooring failure: The Billion Dollar Problem.
Moisture testing is now a greater requirement than ever.
LIMIT YOUR LIABILITY- Industry Standards on subfloor moisture testing have increased in complexity.
Moisture in concrete slabs presents the highest risk for any flooring installation- carpet, tiles, vinyl, solid timber or laminate. The inherent moisture in a concrete slab migrates upwards, carrying with it alkaline solutions. Together they attack the integrity of both the adhesive and the flooring itself. In the US alone, moisture-related flooring failures have caused over $1billion in remedial expense. Additionally, the migration of concrete moisture creates mould and bacteria, which can be hazardous to health. Mould has been associated with the onset, or inflammation of conditions such as allergies, asthma and other acute sensitivities. Mould will grow as long as moisture is present.
Adhesive failure which occured over
2 years after installation
Without a compliant moisture test, anyone directly accountable for a flooring installation is left unprotected from litigation in the event of a flooring failure or moisture-related health issue.
Everyone has an interest in preventing flooring failure...
Standards pertaining to flooring installation have recently increased the demand for more complex moisture testing. Following Industry Standards and manufacturer’s specifications provides a higher warranty against failure. Manufacturer’s specifications for flooring products call for a thorough understanding of the testing, and many will not warranty their product unless an RH test is undertaken.
Who should test?
"...General contractors, building owners, architects and specification writers... it is in their best interest that this testing be performed by qualified independent agencies." - WFA White Paper 2003
The World Floorcovering Association in the USA produced a White Paper around a decade ago, which stipulated that testing should be performed by "qualified independent agencies". While the various testing methods have evolved, the recommendation is more relevant today as the methods of testing have become more complex