Hardwood Floors April/May 2026

The quality of the substrate should not be overlooked. Old friable (crumbling/chalky or soft) gypsums or cements can be problematic because they offer a weak surface. Burnished or polished concrete also can be a concern as these usually lack porosity and the texture that an adhesive needs to mechanically “grab on.” Both (friable or burnished) substrates have low surface energy

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profiles; therefore, reducing a strong adhesive performance. Couple that with a flooring product that has seasonal dimensional changes that create stress/ strain on the bond and a failure could occur to the “weak” substrate giving way. MOISTURE CONCERNS (CUPPING, STAINING/DARKENING, BUCKLING) Contributing factors may include: • Moisture testing • Acclimation • Adhesive selection

• Vapor barrier/membrane selection • Trowel selection/adhesive transfer

We all know moisture has been discussed in every NWFA course, Expo, or Symposium for years. It will not go away in a construction industry that strives for faster installation timeframes and schedules. Understanding when, where, and how to utilize moisture control products can be a crucial step in reducing callbacks. Educating yourself on knowing the science behind moisture control and understanding how that concept unfolds in a construction site is so important. I look forward to discussing this topic in more detail at this year’s NWFA Expo. Chad Bulen is the director of technical services for Bostik’s construction and consumer business unit - North America. He can be reached at chad.bulen@bostik.com.

“TROUBLESHOOTING: SOLVING COMMON ISSUES TO PREVENT CALL BACKS” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 9:15-10:15 A.M. MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW TO JOIN US AT EXPO

Panelists: Chad Bulen and Tyler Powell

IGNITE YOUR PASSION

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