Design
The overall design of a construction project's building envelope is the key to success for many aspects of the project, one being the concrete slab. Moisture infiltration due to inadequate below-slab vapor retarders, inadequately flashed windows and doors, improper drainage, and inappropriate roofing materials and penetrations can increase the already lengthy drying time for a concrete slab.
READ MOREConstruction
Once the design professional has handed over the project to the general contractor, the relationship needs to be one of mutual respect for each professional's area of expertise. Some materials and/or designs may not be the most appropriate for the specific expectations of the completed project. Flexibility is a must. The construction schedule must be organized in a way that protects the slab from the external elements, and the realistic expectation of how long it will take for the slab to truly "dry" must be understood.
READ MOREInstallation
Properly installing finished floor products on a concrete slab has become an increasingly difficult task. One of the major "killers" of successful flooring installation is excessive moisture in the slab. Knowing that you are walking onto a job and having to rely on multiple trades' workmanship sometimes make the job even more challenging. There are always inherent risks in any job, but the objective is to "hedge" your bets and do everything possible to lessen your exposure.
READ MOREOccupancy
The role here is twofold: Having realistic timelines for occupancy and proper maintenance of the finished floor product. Delaying your effective date of occupancy may seem costly, but having to redo a flooring product in an occupied space because of a failure due to excessive moisture will cost much more. You are the one that can control many aspects of this issue.
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