Hardwood Floors April/May 2017

AT THE SITE

Starting with a Solid Foundation (Continued)

• The slab must be a minimum of 30 days old before moisture testing can take place. This does not mean any slab that is 30 days old is ready to receive flooring. Complete all moisture tests and preparation before using any moisture mitigation or adhesive systems. • The slab must be sound. Check for hollow spots, loose or crumbling areas, and cracks. Many cracks, hollow spots or crumbling areas may be an indication of structural issues that should be addressed by a professional or engineer. • The slab must be flat to within 1/8” in a 6’ radius or 3/16” in a 10’ radius. If otherwise specified, follow the minimum tolerance indicated by the flooring manufacturer. Check floor flatness using a laser, straight edge, or string line. • The slab must meet minimum Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) requirements set by the adhesive manufacturer. The normal CSP required for most wood flooring adhesive systems is between CSP 2-4.

QUICK TIP Check floor flatness using a laser, straight edge, or string line.

Photo courtesy of ICRI.

• The slab must be dry and meet the moisture content requirements of the flooring and adhesive manufacturer. • Identify construction joints within the slab and address flooring installation appropriately by using transition pieces, expansion joints, or another method that allows the flooring to move independently at these junctions.

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