Wet Slab

[aofinney]

Due to water penetrating the slab in one of our rooms we have removed the carpet and want to replace it with either ceramic tile or congoleum. The slab is not cracked but obviously the vapor barrier is either non-existent or is defective. We have had the plumbing tested and no leaks were found. What would be the best choice of replacement floor covering and what can we do to seal the slab so that moisture will not continue to come through.
Thanks

[stevea]

I would recommend that you contact a NAWSRC member and have them take alook at the problem. The wet slab in that area could be caused by several things:
1) plumbing leak (which you ruled out)
2) vapor transmission (which is water vapor coming up thru slab)
3) condensation (which is caused by humidity within the home)
4) ground water coming up from the slab.

Depending on the problem your contractor can recommend a solution before you tile.
Steve Andras

[bbertolino]

Thanks for asking that question, I have a similiar situation with moisture/condensation/vapor coming up from my slab floor. Also replacing the carpet, but would like to put laminate flooring over plywood.
Steve (and pardon me if this sounds stupid, but), how do you know the difference between vapor transmission and condensation due to humidity? I believe my problem is humidity. If that's the case, would a vapor barrier be virtually useless? Also (sorry for all the questions), have you ever heard of Humidex (www.humidexatlantic.com) and would that be a helpful solution?

Thank you so much!
Bill Bertolino

[slu]

I also have moisture permeating through my slab by capillary action. This is not moisture condensation from the air, in my case, I checked. Evidently this is quite common around here.
I've been told that the building codes did not require a vapor barrier under the foundation, prior to 1985.
In addition, I suspect that my slab was poorly placed and consolidated.
The moisture seeps through specific spots in the den, and does not necessarily correspond with the locations of discoloration, or surface cracks.
I have used a product called www.EnduroSeal.com, (located in Pinehurst, TX). Water based sealant, non-toxic.
My new carpet was laid shortly after application, and I did not have time to confirm that the slab is now completely sealed.
Is anyone familiar with this product?
Is anyone familiar other sealant products?