The only remedy the Engineer can think of to recommend to the homeowners to resolve the issue is to pull up all the hardwood laminate flooring, install a sealant or vapor barrier over the top of the slab, and then reinstall the floor planking using sleeper boards as nailers.

How do you fix moisture in a concrete slab?

Methods Used to Stop Moisture in Concrete Floors

  1. Low-permeance Vapor Barrier or Retarder. A Low-permeance vapor Barrier or retarder can effectively keep below-slab moisture from reaching the flooring system. …
  2. Allow Natural Drying of Concrete Slab. Ad. …
  3. Keep Excavation Free of Water.




Can moisture come up through concrete slab?

Moisture that rises from the substrate will be absorbed into and rise through the concrete slab, filling the pores and capillaries.” Hydration will usually occur — eventually.

How do you stop rising damp on a concrete slab?

When faced with damp in concrete floors, there are two options available:

  1. Dig up the old concrete floor, install a new damp proof membrane and lap up edges before replacing the concrete slab.
  2. Fully isolate the dampness in the floor using a surface Damp Proof Membrane (DPM)

How long does it take for moisture to leave concrete?





Concrete typically takes 24 to 48 hours to dry enough for you to walk or drive on it. However, concrete drying is a continuous and fluid event, and usually reaches its full effective strength after about 28 days. Here are some of the basic facts regarding the question of concrete drying time.

Will sealing concrete prevent sweating?

Sealers can’t stop condensation. Sealers can reduce the absorption of water on the surface, but they can’t stop condensation from forming. In order to stop concrete sweating caused by condensation, you need to either warm up the concrete or cool down the air temperature.

How can I dry cement fast?

[Tips] How to Speed Up Concrete Drying Time

  1. Use the correct amount of water in the mix. Too much water can increase the drying time.
  2. Do not over-trowel or seal the surface. …
  3. Keep doors and windows closed, the HVAC running, and fans circulating the air.
  4. You can also use dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air.

Can concrete cure under water?



Water Cure

Concrete made with Portland cement will harden even if it is completely under water. In fact, one technique for curing a concrete slab is to build a soil dam around the perimeter of the slab, flood the slab with water and keep the slab covered with water for a week.