How can i measure if i have moisture in concrete without using a moisture meter etc?

Question

I'm laying some timber floorboards directly onto concrete and i need to measure if there is moisture in the concrete so i can determine if i need to put a sealer down. The concrete slab was layed in October 2005 and there is black sheeting through the middle.

Any ideas?

Also - Can anyone give me some tips on what to use with laying my floorboards etc?

The Floorboards are solid jarrah by the way...

Answer 1

What kind of flooring are you laying? Hardwood solid or engineered, makes a big different.
If you are laying engineered - tape a piece of 4' x 4' clear visqueen plastic. use heavy duty tape like duck tape. Wait 2 to 3 days and check for water mist on the plastic. If water mist on the plastic you need more attention. If you are using solid hardwood, be very very careful. You need a meter. Solid hardwood and concrete are not a good together

Answer 2

Tape plastic down on the floor and look for moisture in about 24 hrs.

Answer 3

ok, if it was me, i wouldn't concern myself with if there was moisture or not. I'd just go ahead and lay down a couple of coats of concrete sealer, allow it to dry then start laying my floor.

Answer 4

Have a look at this web site it helped me when I laid my floor. Mine was over particle board, but they have info on laying on concrete as well

Answer 5

using moisture meter will help you to measure moisture perfectly. There are many benefits of using moisture meter.
Following link will help you to know more about Soil Moisture Meter
http://irrigationaustralia.blogspot.com/2013/12/uses-of-soil-moisture-meter-in.html

Answer 6

hi, need more info, email me and i'll help u.....

lic. gen. contractor