Select Page

Calcium Chloride Test

Your Place for Educational Content

Read the Blog

What is the Calcium Chloride Test?

The calcium chloride test is a method for measuring the moisture vapor emission rate (MVER) of concrete floors. Testing concrete moisture is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of flooring installations over concrete. The CaCl test involves sealing a small dish of calcium chloride on a cleaned section of the concrete surface under a plastic dome and measuring the weight change of the calcium chloride after a specific period. This change indicates the amount of moisture vapor emitting from the concrete, helping professionals make informed decisions about flooring installations and treatments.
Learn More

Uses for the Test

It is essential to test concrete moisture conditions before installing flooring materials like vinyl, wood, or carpet over concrete. It’s a critical step in evaluating new construction projects, assessing older buildings for renovations, and troubleshooting moisture-related flooring failures.

Who Uses the Test

This test is widely used by flooring contractors, architects, building inspectors, and renovation experts. Its reliability makes it a standard procedure for professionals who require a concrete slab moisture assessment before proceeding with any installation or renovation work. Understanding the moisture levels in concrete allows professionals to avoid costly flooring failures and ensure compliance with building codes and industry standards.
Learn More

Tips for Using the Test

Ensure the concrete surface is clean and dry for best results before placing the test kit. Conduct the test under environmental conditions that represent the typical use of the building. Avoid common mistakes like testing on freshly laid concrete or areas with extreme temperature variations. It’s recommended to perform multiple tests across different floor areas for a comprehensive assessment. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and industry guidelines for precise testing.

Other Concrete Moisture Testing Tools

While the calcium chloride test is just one of several moisture testing tools available. Relative Humidity (RH) probes, for instance, measure the moisture conditions within the concrete slab and are believed to be more indicative of the conditions a floor covering is ultimately going to experience after the slab’s moisture gradient has equalized. Electronic moisture meters offer a quick, non-destructive way to check surface moisture, though they’re significantly less repeatable than the other methodologies available. Each method has its advantages, and in some cases, a combination of tests may be the best approach to understanding a concrete slab’s moisture condition.

Blog Articles

Stay informed with our latest insights on concrete moisture testing. From detailed guides on the calcium chloride test to the latest trends in flooring and construction, our blog is a treasure trove of information. Dive into our recent articles to deepen your understanding of moisture testing and its impact on flooring projects. Subscribe now and never miss an update on the industry’s best practices and innovative solutions.

A Deep Dive into the Calcium Chloride Test

Jul 3, 2024 |

The integrity of the materials used in flooring projects is paramount. One often overlooked but critical factor is concrete's moisture content. Uncontrolled moisture can lead to a myriad of problems, from flooring damage to mold growth, making moisture testing an...

Calcium Chloride vs Carbide Bomb Test

Jun 11, 2024 |

When it comes to concrete moisture testing, professionals sometimes debate between two methods: the calcium chloride test and the carbide bomb test. Both tests aim to measure moisture content in concrete. In this article, we will discuss the specifics of each test,...

View All

Calcium Chloride Test

Your premier online resource dedicated to concrete moisture testing.