Flooring Failure & Issues
Excessive concrete moisture and pH levels cause more failures of floor coverings, concrete coatings, underlayments, and toppings than any other factor aside from installation defects.
When these levels exceed manufacturers' product limitations, it can manifest to include potential symptoms and issues listed below. Some of these issues can also occur from chemical migration and reactions, contamination, and other factors.
- Adhesive breakdown & re-emulsification
- Alkali attacks
- Blistering
- Blushing of color
- Bond failures
- Bubbling
- Cleanliness & sanitation issues
- Cracking
- Crazing
- Damp areas
- Delamination
- Discoloration
- Efflorescence
- Gaps
- Indoor air quality (IAQ) and "sick building syndrome" issues
- Microbial growth (bacteria, fungi, mold, mildew)
- Pop-outs
- Scaling
- Spalling
- Staining
- Trip & fall hazards
- Uneven walking surfaces
- Voiding of flooring components warranties
- Warping
Commercial carpet tile experiencing issues with excessive moisture and alkalinity levels in an office building.
Hospital operating room floor failure cause by a contaminated slab, insufficient floor preparation, and excessive moisture & pH levels.