Flooring installers and concrete suppliers are being urged to work together more closely as they search for ways to combat moisture and other problems associated with concrete. During the American Concrete Institute (ACI) fall convention in Denver, Colo. more than 100 attendees gathered for a “Hot Topics” session that included pointers on how to solve problems in the field.

“There is a need for the two industries to work collectively to solve the moisture in concrete problem, which is effecting both entities,” said Ward Malish, of American Concrete Institute, who covers the subject in his new publication, Guide for Concrete Slabs that Receive Moisture-Sensitive Flooring Materials.

Larry Press, of Helmitin Adhesives, discussed the effects of concrete moisture on adhesives, concrete finishes and bonding to concrete. Independent Floor Testing & Inspection’s Lee Eliseian discussed the methods of moisture testing including ASTM F-2170 hygrometer probe testing, ASTM F-1869 calcium chloride testing, ASTM E-1907 evaluation methods for concrete moisture and ASTM F-2420 determining the relative humidity on the surface of concrete slabs.

Ray Thompson, Jr., of Floor Covering Institute and a columnist for NFT,  addressed the flooring manufacturers’ concerns including vapor retarder/barriers, blotter layers, compressive strength of concrete, water/cement ratio, alkalinity, curing, sealing and parting compounds, cracking, curling, flatness and concrete trowel finish.

“The flooring industry is gaining a better understanding of the concrete industry, and vice-versa.” Thompson said.