Moisture Readings for Linoleum Flooring

Moisture readings are an important part of assessing the condition of a linoleum floor. They can help determine if there is any moisture damage to the floor or if the subfloor is wet. This information can be used to make decisions about the best course of action for repairing or replacing the floor.

What is an Acceptable Moisture Reading in a Linoleum Floor?

The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) recommends that the moisture content of a linoleum floor be between 6% and 12%. This range is based on the fact that linoleum is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in moisture content. If the moisture content of the floor is too high, the linoleum can swell and buckle. If the moisture content is too low, the linoleum can shrink and crack.

How to Measure Moisture Content

There are a few different ways to measure the moisture content of a linoleum floor. One common method is to use a moisture meter. Moisture meters are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers and provide quick and easy readings of the amount of moisture in the floor.

What to Do if the Moisture Content is Too High

If the moisture content of your linoleum floor is too high, there are a few things you can do to dry it out. These include:

• Ventilating the area by opening windows and doors.
• Using a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.
• Running a fan to circulate the air.
• Placing a space heater in the room to raise the temperature and promote evaporation.

What to Do if the Moisture Content is Too Low

If the moisture content of your linoleum floor is too low, there are a few things you can do to increase it. These include:

• Humidifying the area by using a humidifier.
• Covering the floor with a damp cloth or towel.
• Placing a humidifier near the floor.

Conclusion

Moisture readings are an important part of assessing the condition of a linoleum floor. They can help determine if there is any moisture damage to the floor or if the subfloor is wet. This information can be used to make decisions about the best course of action for repairing or replacing the floor.