What you Do Not See Can Hurt You: Moisture in Concrete Roof Decks
Stephen Condren & Joseph Pinon
Format: MP3 Audio file download

Moisture from concrete roof decks can result in premature failure of the applied roofing system, especially when the roofing system contains moisture-sensitive components. This session reviews the amount of moisture that should be expected to be in normal weight, lightweight structural concrete, and cellular (foamed) concrete toppings, and the drying behavior of the various types of concrete. We investigate the amount of moisture that can migrate into and accumulate within roofing systems applied onto concrete roof decks, and how to mitigate this unwanted water. We also discuss the current field test methods that attempt to determine the moisture content of concrete.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe historical changes in roofing designs and materials that make current roofing systems more susceptible to concrete moisture
• Identify the amount of moisture in concrete and its effect on roofing systems in different climates
• Describe the importance of hygrothermal modeling and engineering analysis in roof design

Target Audience:

• Commercial Contractor
• Residential Contractor
• Architect/Designer/Consultant
• Manufacturer-Supplier
• Building Owner/Facility Manager