Non-destructive concrete moisture test

What is an impedance concrete moisture test?

A non-destructive impedance test determines the moisture content of the concrete floor or slab without damaging the surface.

The ASTM F2659 standard specifies how to perform preliminary evaluation of comparative moisture condition of concrete, gypsum cement and other floor slabs and screeds using a non-destructive electronic moisture meter.

The concrete moisture meter sends a signal into the slab and converts this into a moisture content value.

It is important to note that only a quantitative concrete moisture meter can measure the actual moisture content as opposed to a reference meter which only provides a comparative indication. Tramex concrete meters are quantititative moisture meters.

Step 1: Clean the floor area

Before conducting the non-destructive impedance test, make sure that the concrete surface is clean.

Abrade any residue on the slab to clear it and avoid any painting or drywall mud on the concrete floor.

Step 2: Take multiple measurements in one area

Press the concrete moisture meter firmly onto the surface to obtain a reading.

Take 3 to 4 readings at each location, rotating the meter to get measurements at i.e. North, West, South and East directions noting the highest reading.

Step 3: Repeat test in the required locations

Perform at least eight tests for the first 1000ft2 (100m2) and at least five additional tests for each additional 1000ft2 (100m2). Include test locations in the centre of the floor and within 3ft (1m) of each exterior wall.

Check the floor covering manufacturers' guidelines to see if your readings fall within the given recommendations.

Industry professionals generally recommend a moisture content of 4% MC for floor coverings and 3.5% MC for concrete coatings on newly-poured concrete (For more information click here). However, it's always best to check the floor manufacturers' guidelines.

Choose your Concrete Moisture Meter

To carry out a non-destructive impedance test, you need a reliable concrete moisture meter.

Tramex offers two types of concrete moisture meters: analog and digital.

The Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter 5 - CME5 or Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter X5 - CMEX5 provides a quantitative moisture content reading ¾ inch(20mm) into the top layer of the concrete floor or slab.

Tramex CME concrete moisture meters are calibrated specifically for concrete to provide instant and precise quantitative measurement of the moisture content (%MC) of concrete, using gravimetric testing as a baseline.

Concrete Moisture Encounter 5

The CME5 is a non-destructive analog concrete moisture meter. It reads into the top ¾ inch layer of the slab and provides instant, accurate, quantitative moisture content results.

The CME5 works with the Tramex Meters App for saving data, moisture mapping, creating reports and sharing results with clients. This data can prove crucial for all parties involved to make sure that all requirements have been met during an installation process.

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Concrete Moisture Encounter X5

The digital CMEX5 is a non-destructive digital concrete moisture meter. It reads into the top ¾ inch layer of the slab and provides instant, accurate, quantitative moisture content results.

The CMEX5 has the added benefits of being a relative humidity meter with its built-in hygrometer for ambient RH and temperature sensor, which is essential for determining any dew point issues at time of installation.

The CMEX5 also features a plug in port for Hygro-i2 Relative Humidity probes to carry out the ASTM F2170 test and for attaching optional wood pin probes and Relative Humidity sensors.

All measured data can be saved to the Tramex Meters App for moisture mapping, creating reports and sharing results with clients. This data can prove crucial for all parties involved to make sure that all requirements have been met.

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