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Concrete moisture sealant for subfloor

1K views 10 replies 4 participants last post by  1953house  
#1 ·
I am planning on DIY laying my vinyl plank flooring in my basement but before I do that I was going to put some moisture sealant like ARDEX VR 98 on the concrete subfloor. There is still some adhesive left behind from old flooring that was laid down wondering if anyone has laid down concrete sealer before and then and if this is going to be a problem or has other sealant recommendations
 
#5 ·
There is cheap test that will give you some idea of what you have.
Tape a sheet of poly on the floor and seal the edges. After a day or two check to see if water is on it or under it.
To me anything that you paint on top to stop water is a waste of money and time and it will soon after that you will be fixing the issue by some other means.
 
#6 ·
The taped down sheet of poly is only a test for that day, tells you nothing about the year round variations.
There are subfloor materials that elevate everything allowing drying to occur below. No experience with them but I would suggest some research.

Bud
 
#10 ·
I would only be guessing.
Confession, I don't like finished basements. Years back helped a neighbor clean out his after a water pipe broke, 3' of water. Personally I have had to potential disasters, broken washing machine hose and a busted pipe on the other end of the house. Both areas have floor drains to daylight so minimal flooding and easily cleaned up. Also, no drywall which does poorly when wet. Unknown how your finished floor will handle such a disaster so potential problems go beyond moisture vapor and mold.
Be sure your home owners insurance coverage includes the new exposure.

Bud
 
#11 ·
Yeah my basement was finished before and flooded which is why I'm doing this work so I feel you on that. But it's a rental unit down there with a kitchen and bath so I figured I'll get my money back in time. Will likely not buy a house with a finished basement or even a basement again. Such a pain.