--- title: "Moisture Testing in Concrete: Why It Matters Before Coatings" description: Before applying epoxy or floor coatings, moisture testing is critical. Learn why concrete moisture testing matters, the best testing methods, and how to prevent costly coating failures. image: https://blog.aramsco.com/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20avoid%20costly%20mistakes%20blog.png --- - [Home](https://aramsco.com) - [Pro's Corner](https://blog.aramsco.com) [![Aramsco](https://blog.aramsco.com/hubfs/Aramsco_May2019/Image/logo.png)](https://www.aramsco.com/) - [Home](https://aramsco.com) - [Pro's Corner](https://blog.aramsco.com) - Account - [locations](http://aramsco-live.epicorcommerce.com/locations/) - [education](http://aramsco-live.epicorcommerce.com/education/) - [about us](http://aramsco-live.epicorcommerce.com/aboutus/) # Pro's Corner ## [Moisture Testing in Concrete: Why It Matters Before Coatings](https://blog.aramsco.com/moisture-testing-in-concrete-why-it-matters-before-coatings) Posted by Aramsco Technical Staff on Feb 12th 2026 Concrete might look dry on the surface — but what’s happening inside the slab can determine whether your coating succeeds or fails. Moisture-related failures are one of the most common causes of peeling, blistering, and delamination in epoxy and resinous flooring systems. The culprit? Excess moisture vapor trapped beneath the coating. Skipping moisture testing can turn a profitable job into an expensive redo. ## ![Copy of Copy of avoid costly mistakes blog](https://blog.aramsco.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20avoid%20costly%20mistakes%20blog.png?width=1200&height=628&name=Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20avoid%20costly%20mistakes%20blog.png) ## Why Moisture Matters Concrete is porous and continues to transmit moisture vapor long after it cures. When coatings are applied over slabs with high internal moisture: - Vapor pressure builds - Adhesion weakens - Bubbling and blistering occur - Coatings delaminate The result: costly removal, re-prep, new materials, and lost time. ## Common Moisture Testing Methods ### In-Situ Relative Humidity (RH) Testing Measures internal slab moisture (ASTM F2170). Often preferred by manufacturers because it reflects long-term moisture conditions. ### Calcium Chloride Testing (MVER) Measures surface vapor emission rate (ASTM F1869). Useful, but only evaluates the top portion of the slab. ### [Moisture Meters](https://www.aramsco.com/1609-9398-tramex-cme5-concrete-moisture-meter-moisture-content-for-concrete-0-6-penetration-depth-3-4-20mm-199039.html) Great for quick scanning and identifying trouble areas — but not a replacement for ASTM-compliant testing. ## When Should You Test? - Before any epoxy or resinous coating application - On new slabs (even if fully cured) - After water exposure - On below-grade or unknown vapor barrier slabs Even older concrete can retain and transmit moisture. ## Protect Your Warranty — and Your Margins Most coating manufacturers specify maximum RH or MVER limits. Exceeding those limits can void warranties and lead to failure. Testing takes a few extra hours. Replacing a failed floor takes days — and thousands of dollars. Moisture testing isn’t optional — it’s part of professional surface prep. Know your numbers before you coat. It protects your profit, your reputation, and your customer!   ***Have a blog topic you want us to discuss? 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