Instructions / Assembly

Key Factors to Consider:
hThe age of the slab. National Wood Flooring Association
guidelines specify to wait at least 30 days after the slab is
laid before checking moisture content. ***
hIs the slab on grade or suspended? If the slab is on
grade, is there an effective vapor barrier under the slab?
hHow thick is the slab?
hWhat is the drainage condition of the ground?
hHistory of other structures in the area
***Taken from Section V Appendix AA “Moisture Testing
Procedures for Concrete Slabs” — NWFA
Testing Brick or Concrete for Paint Application
Brick, stucco, or concrete surfaces must be dry at the time of
application and must remain dry after paint is applied or failure
of the paint film may occur. These materials are frequently
exposed to unusual moisture conditions that allow them to absorb
moisture through some exposed surface or some structural defect.
This is why it is important to check the moisture content of the
brick or concrete when it has been exposed to conditions that
permit it to absorb moisture.
Procedure:
hDrive two hardened steel masonry nails about 3/4” apart into
the brick or concrete. Drive them about 1/4” deep so they
make firm contact and do not move when touched.
hTouch the nails with the contact pins
^.
hPress read button
! and read the reference scale.
Normally, dry concrete or brick will read in the green or “dry”
portion of scale, indicating a safe condition to apply paint.
Meter readings should be evaluated in relation to other factors —
knowledge of the structure, type of paint used, expected weather
conditions in the near future, etc. Paint should not be applied if
readings are in the red or “wet” portion of the scale.
Do not be misled by surface appearance of masonry materials.
Short exposure to rain may thoroughly wet the surface while
the interior is still dry. In this instance, we recommend repeating
the test on the masonry below the surface as mentioned above.
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