If you are looking for a flooring material that offers affordability, durability, and customization, microtopping also known as microcement is the way to go. Microtoppings offer unlimited customization options in terms of texture and color, especially if you choose a product from Duraamen. Moisture vapor control in the concrete substrate is one thing to be mindful of when installing new concrete. Moisture vapor control is one of the most important considerations when installing flooring over new concrete slabs. Concrete contains a significant amount of water when it is poured, and this moisture gradually migrates toward the surface as the slab cures and dries. If flooring systems or coatings are installed before the slab has properly dried or before vapor emissions are controlled, the trapped moisture can lead to serious flooring failures.
Excess moisture vapor can cause problems such as bubbling, blistering, and delamination of floor coatings. These issues often occur when moisture pressure pushes upward through the concrete and interferes with the bond between the coating and the slab.
To prevent these problems, many flooring systems incorporate moisture mitigation or vapor control layers. These systems typically use epoxy-based membranes or primers that form a dense barrier over the concrete surface, helping to reduce vapor transmission through the slab.
Moisture mitigation is not about completely drying the concrete; rather, it is about controlling how water vapor moves through the slab before installing decorative or protective flooring systems.
Proper moisture testing is also an important part of the process. Contractors commonly evaluate moisture conditions in concrete slabs before installing coatings to ensure the substrate is suitable for flooring installation.
When moisture vapor control systems are properly installed, they help stabilize the substrate and significantly extend the life of floor coatings. These systems are widely used in commercial buildings, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and other environments where durable concrete flooring is required.
By addressing moisture vapor issues early in the construction process, building owners and contractors can avoid costly repairs and ensure that flooring systems perform reliably for many years.
The Effect of Moisture on Concrete
When you have a new layer of concrete poured – either for new construction or a concrete resurfacing job – there are several factors to consider. First, you want to ensure that you use the right product for the job. Second, you want to know that it is being installed correctly. One of the biggest causes of failure in new concrete is excess moisture in or below the concrete slab. It is always necessary to ensure that the installed product bonds to the structure below it. When excess moisture begins to flow, however, it may lead to problems with adhesion.
Moisture vapor emission in concrete substrates can be managed using epoxy resin-based products like Perdure MVT. The best way to ensure moisture vapor control for new concrete is to use the Perdure Moisture Vapor Control (MVT) system from Duraamen. This system utilizes a unique water-based epoxy that allows moisture-sensitive floor coverings on new concrete without the risk of moisture entrapment. This product is applied in a two-coat application and requires minimal downtime. The Perdure MVT system eliminates blistering and delamination of adhesives and floor colorings, effectively controlling water vapor transmission levels to ensure the durability of your new concrete surfaces.
Resurfacing a concrete floor is no easy task, so the professionals should leave the job. Duraamen is not only one of the leaders in decorative concrete and resinous flooring systems, but we also have access to a large network of qualified concrete professionals. For all of your concrete work, trust Duraamen to get the job done right the first time.
Duraamen Engineered Products are designed to provide labor-saving and long-lasting flooring solutions. Talk to an expert about your flooring challenges…Please Call + 1 973 230 1301 / Email Us
