Time of Install Testing for Concrete Moisture Presentation

Video Training presentation for the Time of Install for Concrete Moisture with Larry Marvel, Bob Higgins, and David Daniels.

Larry Marvel

Larry Marvel, with over 45 years of experience in the floor covering industry, emphasizes the significance of a revolutionary tool in the installation sector. As a technical representative for a floor covering manufacturer and the founder of Installer Certified Ecom, Larry highlights the evolution of moisture testing methodologies over the years.

In the provided text, Larry stresses the importance of having access to crucial information at the beginning of installations. He introduces advancements in science related to moisture testing substrates, emphasizing the role of ambient temperatures, surface moisture, dew point, and slab temperatures in adhesive bonding and curing. Larry believes that having this information at the start of an installation is vital for ensuring the longevity of expensive products and avoiding potential claims.

Larry invites installers and management teams to consider investing in this valuable tool, which provides instant readings at the time of installation. He suggests that these quick tests can prevent numerous issues and claims, offering control over the installation environment. Larry concludes by expressing gratitude for the audience's time and encourages them to listen to Bobby Higgins and David Daniels for further insights.


Robert Higgins

Bob Higgins, an independent concrete consultant, emphasizes the importance of protecting installers, their companies, and the companies they represent during installations. Using the example of moisture-related issues in basketball courts leading to canceled NBA games, Bob discusses the significance of considering ambient conditions in installations.

Bob delves into the challenges posed by concrete properties, such as alkalinity, affecting moisture testing methods like humidity probes and calcium chloride tests. He highlights the limitations of these tests in accurately assessing concrete moisture and introduces the Tramex meter as a more reliable tool for evaluating the top surface of concrete.

Bob addresses the impact of environmental conditions on concrete, explaining how temperature variations affect concrete strength and moisture levels. He also discusses the influence of EPA regulations on cement production and how increased alkalinity can exacerbate moisture-related problems.

In conclusion, Bob challenges traditional notions of dry concrete, emphasizing the need to rethink approaches to measuring dryness. He stresses that more than 90% of installation problems stem from ambient conditions, advocating for the use of the Tramex meter to obtain accurate moisture readings from the concrete's top surface.


David Daniels

David from Tramex Meters introduces the CMEX5, a tool designed to simplify moisture testing of concrete slabs. He emphasizes the importance of gravimetric testing, explaining that the CMEX5 is calibrated based on this method. By pressing the meter to the concrete surface, users can obtain a percentage of moisture content in the top three-quarters of an inch, a crucial area affecting floor coverings.

Referring to a study by the VA in Finland, David compares the CMEX5's repeatability with gravimetric testing on polished, clean, bare concrete. He highlights the meter's alignment with gravimetric results, emphasizing its reliability in the field.

David introduces the "Time of Install Kit," containing equipment for a three-step test to evaluate the concrete slab's moisture condition before installing floor coverings. The first step involves assessing ambient conditions, with the CMEX5 providing dew point information. The second step uses an infrared thermometer to check the surface temperature, ensuring it's at least ten degrees Fahrenheit above the ambient dew point.

David then explains the third step, where the CMEX5 meter is used to take moisture readings in different locations. A dry reading (4% or less) indicates readiness for installation, while elevated readings prompt further investigation. David advises using fans or dehumidifiers based on the results and emphasizes the importance of continuous testing during installation due to the variable nature of concrete moisture.

The CMEX5 also offers scales for testing gypsum, and David discusses the benefits of Bluetooth connectivity with the Tramex Meters app. The app enables users to document, map, and geotag moisture readings, providing a comprehensive record for future reference. David also suggests verifying meter calibration before testing and emphasizes the kit's role in ensuring successful flooring installations.

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