Have the Data Generate Your Strategy

To effectively identify moisture emission we begin by collecting data.  The data provides a glimpse as to the quantity of moisture and the dynamic processes acting within the slab that results in elevated MVER and insitu %RH.  The more data collected, the more professional the collection, the more thorough the analysis; the better the recommendation for proper mitigation.  Just like a doctor treating a patient during a physical.  With each additional test result the prognosis or predicted condition evolves to a diagnosis.  With a diagnosis the doctor prescribes a protocol to remedy the condition.

Prognosis - prediction based on circumstantial evidence of a physical condition.
Diagnosis - conclusive determination of a physical condition from testing and evaluation.

The measurement of MVER and insitu %RH has some real science behind it.  The estimated cost of a floor failure exceeds twice the installation.  For a typical 50,000sf commercial/retail installation at $2.50/sf this means the potential loss could exceed $500,000.  More than enough to put a small flooring contractor out of business.  This begs the question as to who should be responsible for collecting the data, providing the analysis and determining the proper mitigation technique to be employed.  Does the typical flooring contractor need this liability?  If a third party, independent testing facility is used should they be the one to provide the recommended chemistry?  Or does a coordinated effort on the part of contractor, testing service and manufacturer (flooring or adhesive) best serve the retailer/owners interest?  Whatever the case the data collected must be interpreted correctly.

Moisture mitigation is complex.  An evolution toward reliance on field data prior to installation is necessary to avoid the inflating cost of liability and loss.  Data must direct the solution.