Moisture Testing Requirements for Warranties

What is an Acceptable Moisture Reading in a Hardwood Floor?

Moisture testing is an essential step in the installation process of hardwood floors to
ensure their longevity and prevent issues such as buckling, warping, and cupping.
By measuring the moisture content of the subfloor, installers can determine if it is
dry enough to receive the hardwood flooring. Failure to meet the specified moisture
requirements can void the manufacturer’s warranty and leave homeowners with costly
repairs.

Moisture Testing Requirements

The acceptable moisture reading for a hardwood floor installation varies depending on
the type of subfloor and the species of hardwood used. Generally, the moisture content
should not exceed:

• 5% for concrete subfloors
• 7-9% for engineered hardwood subfloors
• 6-12% for solid hardwood subfloors

Testing Methods

Moisture testing can be conducted using various methods, including:

• Pin-type moisture meter: A handheld device that measures the moisture
  content by inserting pins into the subfloor
• Calcium carbide moisture test: A chemical reaction test that measures
  the release of acetylene gas to determine moisture content

Consequences of Exceeding Moisture Levels

Installing hardwood flooring on a subfloor with excessive moisture can lead to
several problems, such as:

• Buckling: Occurs when moisture causes the hardwood planks to expand,
  pushing against each other and creating a raised or humped appearance
• Warping: Occurs when moisture causes the hardwood planks to bend or twist
  out of shape
• Cupping: Occurs when the edges of the hardwood planks curl upwards due to
  uneven moisture absorption

Warranty Considerations

Most hardwood flooring manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects in materials
and workmanship. However, these warranties may be voided if the flooring is
installed on a subfloor that exceeds the specified moisture requirements. Therefore,
it is crucial to ensure that moisture testing is conducted before installation and
that the results meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

By adhering to the moisture testing requirements and installing hardwood flooring on
a dry subfloor, homeowners can protect their investment and enjoy beautiful and
durable flooring for years to come.