SKOKIE, Ill.— Unwanted moisture in concrete floors annually causes millions of dollars in damage to buildings in the United States.  Problems from excessive moisture can include deterioration, trip-and-fall hazards and microbial growth, which can lead to reduced indoor air quality, staining, and deterioration of building finishes. 

For a floor to function successfully, specifiers, builders, owners, and finish/flooring installers each must understand the factors for floor performance, especially moisture.  This is critical to preventing this damage and ensuring concrete floors and flooring systems that provide excellent service for many years.

The second edition of Concrete Floors and Moisture from the Portland Cement Association (PCA) discusses the sources of moisture, proper drying of concrete, methods of measuring moisture, construction practices, specifications, and responsibilities for successful floor projects.   This edition includes discussion of terrazzo issues and a detailed discussion of issues with ASTM F1869 moisture emission testing. 

Additionally, the publication updates references on drying times of lightweight concrete, and the sources of supplies and standards.
 
For more information or to order, visit the PCA Bookstore at www.cement.org/bookstore.  Orders can also be placed by calling 800-868-6733. 

About PCA
Based in Skokie, Ill., the Portland Cement Association represents cement companies in the United States and Canada. It conducts market development, engineering, research, education, and public affairs programs. More information on PCA programs is available at www.cement.org.

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