Concrete moisture & mold 1

[brian61]

15,000 SF warehouse slab in the Pacific Northwest with perimeter vapor barrier and moisture intrusion in central finished area without vapor barrier resulting in recurring mold growth under carpet tiles with impermeable backing. Area is surrounded by a wetland and has a high water table. Floor has a sealer (10 mil thick and leveling compound)with moisture still collecting between the sealer and the carpet tiles.

Q: I am looking for a solution to minimize moisture buildup and mold growth so that it can be effectively maintained without having to remove the finished flooring every 3 - 6 months. Solutions currently under consideration: install a film over the concrete sealer to contain the moisture coming through the slab, then install new carpet over the dry film; install a raised floor; install carpet with permeable backing; other ideas?

 

[dik]

Might be tricky... you want to remove the moisture from the concrete. Judging from the problem, it appears that any granular base beneath the concrete is not clear stone and that water is in close proximity to the concrete slab.

I don't know if it's possible to draw down the water to minimize contact with the concrete... best first option.

You can check with various suppliers to see what sealing materials are available and how you can effectively 'kill' any existing mold.

Might be that you can kill the mold and put a waterproof membrane down and then apply the new carpet over the membrane.

Dik