Acceptable Moisture Levels
Moisture mapping is a crucial step in hardwood floor installation and maintenance. It involves measuring the moisture content of the subfloor to ensure it meets the recommended levels.
For hardwood floors, acceptable moisture levels typically range from 6% to 9%. Maintaining these levels helps prevent moisture-related issues such as cupping, buckling, and warping.
What is an Acceptable Moisture Reading in a Hardwood Floor?
The acceptable moisture reading for a hardwood floor varies depending on the subfloor material and the type of adhesive used.
- Concrete Subfloors: 6% to 7%
- Plywood Subfloors: 6% to 8%
- Oriented Strand Board (OSB) Subfloors: 7% to 9%
Exceeding these moisture levels can compromise the stability and longevity of the hardwood floor. It is essential to perform moisture mapping before installing hardwood floors to ensure the subfloor is adequately dry.
If the moisture content of the subfloor is above the acceptable levels, professional moisture remediation measures may be necessary to bring it within the recommended range.