Testing concrete for moisture

The following methods are acceptable means of testing for concrete sub floor moisture content:

. Polyfilm test: Apply 3´ x 3´ (90 cm x 90 cm) pieces of polyethylene film to the sub floor and leave in place for 24 hours.Assure all edges are completely sealed with water-resistant tape. Darkened concrete or condensation on film indicates presence of moisture and requires additional measurements with a moisture meter.

. Concrete Moisture Meter. . If the moisture content in the concrete slab exceeds the manufacturers recommended guidelines, then one should not glue the hardwood floor directly to the concrete sub floor, instead one should consider a floating floor construction. Floating floors are installed over a moisture barrier, which prevents any moisture contained in the concrete sub floor from infecting your hardwood floor.