The reality is that even the smallest amount of moisture or water vapor can compromise the the look of your floor and possibly ruin an installation. Regardless of the age of the slab, moisture can still penetrate through if the proper materials and adhesives are not used. Unfortunately not all flooring options are appropriate for all homes, and a remodeler can be limited especially if the floor is below grade. Although, if you are dead set on hardwood flooring as oppose to another option, using a moisture-vapor permeable film is a must.
Below we have some images illustrating what can happen if moisture seeps through your slab. This customer decided to install a ¾ inch plywood and then nail down the solid hardwood flooring. If a moisture barrier adhesive would have been included in the process, these unsightly bubbles would not have been present.
What happens when a moisture barrier is not used:
Images of moisture-vapor permeable film being applied to the floor.
Bostik and MAPEI are Metro Atl. Floors two preferred vendors so please take some time to review their products.
If you have any additional questions regarding moisture-vapor permeable films or any other flooring items, please leave a comment below. We also do FREE in home consultations if you’re interested in making an upgrade.
Our favorite providers of MVP adhesives include Bostik and Mapei. We recommend considering their products when doing and installation project.