Posted on July 7, 2025 

When it comes to successful flooring installations, few steps are more crucial than concrete moisture testing. Whether you’re laying luxury vinyl plank, engineered hardwood, carpet, or epoxy coatings, understanding and controlling the moisture content in your concrete subfloor is essential. Ignoring this step can lead to costly flooring failures, reduced product lifespan, and voided warranties.

🧪 Why Concrete Moisture Matters

Concrete naturally holds moisture—even after it appears dry to the touch. During the curing process, this moisture is supposed to evaporate over time. However, depending on the environmental conditions, slab thickness, and location, this process can take weeks or even months.

Installing flooring before the concrete is fully dried can result in serious issues, including:

• Adhesive failure
• Mold growth
• Cupping or warping of hardwood or LVP
• Blistering or bubbling in vinyl or epoxy coatings
• Long-term structural damage

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🔍 Types of Moisture Testing for Concrete

There are several industry-approved methods to measure moisture in concrete slabs, each with different levels of accuracy and suitability depending on the flooring type.

1. Calcium Chloride (MVER) Test

• Measures Moisture Vapor Emission Rate (MVER).
• Ideal for evaluating surface moisture for topical adhesives or carpet installations.

2. Relative Humidity (RH) Probe Test

• Utilizes in-slab probes to measure the internal relative humidity of the concrete.
• Considered the industry standard for many commercial and engineered flooring products.

3. Moisture Meters

• Offers non-invasive surface moisture readings.
• Devices like Tramex or Lignomat are ideal for quick checks or identifying problem areas.

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🕒 When and Why to Test

Moisture testing should always be completed before flooring installation—even if the slab looks dry. Appearances can be deceiving, and undetected moisture can wreak havoc once a floor is installed.

Conditions that increase moisture risks include:

• Newly poured concrete slabs
• Areas with high water tables
• Poorly installed or missing vapor barriers
• Radiant heat systems
• Basements or ground-level floors

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🧪 Simple Moisture Test on Concrete Floors

For a basic moisture check at home, try the plastic sheet test:

• Tape down a 2' x 2' sheet of clear plastic over the concrete.
• Leave for 24–48 hours.
• If condensation forms beneath the plastic, the slab still contains excess moisture.

⚠️ Note: This is not a substitute for professional testing.

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⚠️ Consequences of Skipping Moisture Testing

Skipping this step can lead to:

• Adhesive breakdown or flooring separation
• Mold and mildew problems
• Complete flooring failure, requiring expensive repairs
• Voided warranties
• Project delays in new construction or remodeling

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✅ Benefits of Professional Concrete Moisture Testing

Hiring professionals ensures your flooring investment is protected from the start.

Key Benefits:

• Confirms proper adhesive bonding
• Prevents future failures and damage
• Maintains warranty eligibility
• Supports flooring performance and longevity

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🏁 Conclusion

Moisture is one of the most common—and most overlooked—threats to flooring success. Concrete moisture testing isn’t just an optional precaution; it’s a foundational step in every high-quality flooring installation.

At Cunningham Flooring Specialists, we provide professional, evidence-based testing services to ensure your floors are installed under ideal conditions. From small residential jobs to large commercial spaces, we make sure your project starts—and stays—on solid ground.

📞 Need help assessing your subfloor?

Contact us today for expert advice, dependable moisture testing solutions, and quality flooring installation you can trust.