Tackling the problem of concrete floor covering failures

A March 2026 presentation by Chris Maskell of the National Floor Covering Association of Canada (NFCA) and David Daniels of Tramex North America highlights the issue of floor covering failures caused by poor concrete moisture testing.

The authors of the presentation state that concrete flooring drying is a complex process that requires considerable time before adhesives and floor coverings can be applied. Residual moisture can lead to adhesive failure, mould growth, and warping.

Floor covering failures can be costly to rectify or may lead to legal claims. The high expense of flooring failures has led experts to describe this as a “billion-dollar problem.”

The presentation identified the three main methods of moisture testing. Relying on a single test alone is not recommended.

1. In-situ Relative Humidity (ASTM F2170), which uses probes to measure internal moisture.
2. Anhydrous Calcium Chloride (ASTM F1869), which measures vapour emission rates from the concrete surface.
3. Electrical Impedance Testing (EIT/ASTM F2659) for instant surface moisture measurements.

Qualified professionals should perform these moisture measurements so that an accurate assessment can be made of when the concrete is ready for coating. All testing data needs checking before making concrete drying decisions.

In Canada, the National Floor Covering Association of Canada (NFCA) has published a best practice guide created by 65 industry experts. This guide aims to help reduce the significant financial burden of moisture-related flooring faults.

The presentation authors call for improved education on moisture testing to ensure that concrete flooring lasts longer.