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Course Description: AEC Daily: Protecting Floors from Below: Vapor Barriers for Concrete Slabs on Grade and in Crawl Spaces
Vapor barriers beneath concrete slabs on grade are critical for controlling moisture vapor infiltration from the ground. This course provides an overview of vapor barriers used beneath concrete slabs on grade and in crawl spaces, showcasing common flooring failures that occur when a slab is not properly protected. We’ll explore how moisture enters and moves in the concrete, review key prevention and testing methods, and examine relevant industry standards and specification guidance. Finally, we’ll apply these concepts to practical case studies.
Recall why and when a moisture vapor barrier is needed beneath a concrete slab on grade.
Recognize moisture-related flooring failures and describe the ways moisture can enter the building and move through the concrete slab.
Identify common moisture testing methods and the differences between them.
Recall key performance characteristics of vapor barriers, industry standards and guidance (ASTM, ACI), and their relevance for project specifications.
Describe the performance characteristics of composite vapor barriers and the benefit of their ability to mechanically bond to a concrete slab.
Recall the role of vapor barriers in crawl spaces, including their impact on the building’s structural integrity and indoor air quality.