Vapour Barrier Under Concrete Slab

Why is too much moisture in concrete a problem.

Vapour barrier under concrete slab.

A much better approach is a true vapor barrier with characteristics that conform to the requirements of astm e 1745 standard specification for water vapor retarders used in contact with soil or granular fill under concrete slabs. By steve ragan director research and technical services the answer to this controversial question from both angles is a qualified yes vapor barriers have been associated with certain concrete slab on grade problems including curling and cracking. Astm international gives specific guidelines in astm e1745 17 and astm e1643 for the use installation and inspection of vapor barriers used under concrete slabs. It prevents moisture from coming up through the slab ie rising damp.

Should you put a vapor barrier under concrete slabs. A below slab vapor barrier can also help prevent sub slab radon ingress. Thin plastic like this is often called a vapor retarder meaning it slows the vapor down but doesn t stop it. Too much moisture in concrete is a problem because it can cause ph changes that destroy adhesives.

When evaluating the performance qualities of vapor barriers as soil gas retarders be sure to check the radon diffusion coefficient of the material before you select it. If heavy equipment will be operating on the vapor barrier or if the vapor barrier will be installed over an angular subbase a minimum of 15 mils is recommended. Many vapor barriers are synonymous with soil gas retarders in construction language. These are barriers that bond to poured concrete for use under slab foundation or basement walls.

The purpose of a vapour barrier is to provide a robust membrane material that will resist diffusion of moisture or gases through floors walls and ceilings. Known for our flagship stego wrap line of below slab vapor barriers and retarders stego has earned the respect trust and recommendation of architectural engineering and construction communities. Many moisture problems associated with interior concrete floors and slabs on grade can be minimized or eliminated by installing a vapor barrier under the concrete. Liquid membranes systems are engineered for below slab construction.

A vapor barrier should be used for all concrete floors and slabs that are going to receive an impermeable floor finish like epoxy laminate linoleum and wood or if the concrete. Stego industries is the leader in the below slab concrete vapor barrier market. Chemical resistance consideration if a vapor barrier is being used under a slab to control vapors at a brownfields site the chemical resistance of the vapor barrier must be considered.