The ASTM F2170 standard represents a fundamental change in how moisture is measured and to what degree of accuracy is to be obtained. ASTM recognizes that floor coverings often fail due to unsuitable concrete moisture levels beneath them or arising out of the concrete substrate.
How do you test for moisture in concrete?
Concrete moisture testing methods This test involves taping an 18” x 18” polyethylene sheet to a concrete surface and then waiting at least 16 hours. Visible condensation on the sheet or darkening of the concrete indicates excessive moisture. Any coating applied to the surface may be at risk of failure.
What is a tramex meter?
The Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter – CME5 is an instant, precise, non-destructive, analog moisture meter for measuring quantitative moisture content % in concrete floors and slabs using Gravimetric testing as a baseline.
What level of moisture is acceptable?
A reading of up to 17 percent is generally considered moderate moisture and acceptable. Any reading over 17 percent is considered to be an indication of saturation and the need to replace the drywall and to take preventative measures against future moisture buildup.
What is acceptable moisture level in concrete?
Acceptable moisture levels in concrete according to ASTM standard, when testing via ASTM F2170, the RH level of a concrete slab needs to be at or below 75% — unless the flooring system manufacturer provides alternate guidelines. Some flooring system manufacturers have products that can handle 95% RH or more.
How do you read a tramex moisture meter?
a. When testing wood, power-on, select Scale 1 and press the rubber electrodes directly to the sur- face. Read the moisture percentage from the top line of the analog dial where calibration is marked from 5% to 30%. If switched on, the audio signal will sound when readings are above 18%.
What is a good moisture reading?
Readings on a moisture reader will generally range from 5 to 40 percent. A range of 5 to 12 percent is considered optimal. Any reading over 17 percent is considered to be an indication of saturation and the need to replace the drywall and to take preventative measures against future moisture buildup.
What is a bad moisture reading?
In general, any reading between 6 and 10% is considered normal here. Now if you are testing exterior wood that has direct contact with the surrounding humidity, you can tolerate values that are up to 20%. Things start to get worrying when the meter indicates higher values than 20%.
What is the dry standard for concrete?
Concrete takes weeks – not days – to dry. That’s the way it is – concrete absorbs water slowly and releases it even more slowly. Most flooring material standards are either 3 to 5-lbs of evaporation per 1000 square feet (MVER) or 70 to 75% (ERH).
