5
EIFS (Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems)*
Moisture intrusion problems in EIFS (also known as synthetic stucco) stem from leaking window frames, improper use of or lack of
sealant, and faulty installation of flashing.
If you suspect a problem take a visual inspection. Look for gaps around windows, doors, air conditioning units, light fixtures, hose
bibs, dryer vents and other areas of potential
penetration. Also look for visible signs of water damage. If you feel a problem exists, use the
BD-10
with a
#21-E electrode
. This
electrode includes the
#608 - 10.2cm (
4”) insulated pins
.
Procedure:
Drill two 6.4mm (
¼”) holes
about 19mm (
¾”) apart at an upward 45° angle.
Push the #21-E Electrode into the holes
through the polystyrene and into the substrate.
Press read button
and read the scale.
*
Refer to the wood scale
if the sheathing is plywood. If gypsum sheathing is used, refer to the reference scale
.
USING THE 0-100 REFERENCE SCALE
Testing Concrete Slabs for Flooring Applications
Moisture meters are an effective tool to check moisture in concrete. They can tell you where there may be excess moisture and
help determine if you need to conduct further testing. It is important to test both the surface and mid-section of the slab, especially if
the slab is on or below grade. This will help determine if there is continuous moisture migration toward the surface. If this condition
exists, the moisture movement may
be so slow that once it reaches the surface, moisture evaporates
and causes a “dry” reading when a surface test is made.
However, if a sub-surface test is made, the meter may read
“wet” indicating the presence of moisture. When the slab is covered
and the upward movement of moisture continues, moisture will move into a hygroscopic (wood) floor, or build-up pressure under a
non-breathing synthetic floor, causing delamination.
Taking a Surface Reading:
Drive two hardened-steel masonry
nails about 19mm (
¾”) apart into the finish coat of concrete floor. Drive them about
3.2mm (
⅛”) deep so they make firm contact with the concrete and do not move when touched.
Touch the nails
with the contact pins
.
Press read button
and read the reference scale
.
If the meter reads in the red or “wet” area, it shows the floor is
not satisfactory for covering. If meter reads in
the green or “dry” area, the surface is dry. However, subsurface tests should
be made to verify if the slab is dry throughout.
Subsurface Test:
Drill two 6.4mm (
¼”) holes,
19mm (
¾”) apart and 12.7mm to 50.8mm (
½”
to 2”) deep.
Drive the masonry nails
into the bottom of the holes and make the tests as described above. Nails must not touch sides
of drilled holes.
Summary of Contents for BD-10
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