Installation Guide

9
exceed 75% relative humidity. (ASTM F2170 - Standard Test Method for Determining
Relative Humidity in Concrete Floor Slabs Using In Situ Probes).
9.5 Testing for Alkalinity - Testing the pH at the surface of a concrete slab must be
conducted in accordance with ASTM F 710-05 “, not to exceed 9 pH . (ASTM F710-05 -
Standard Practice for Preparing Concrete Floors to Receive Resilient Flooring).
Note: Preparing the surface of a concrete slab for pH testing can be
problematical. Make sure the concrete surface is adequately cleaned of
adhesives, curing compounds etc. When pH readings are less than 8.5, it may
be an indication of a residue remaining on the concrete surface. Also use care
not to over clean the surface of the concrete, consequently removing the
(usually) thin layer of carbonation. This can result in pH readings >12.
Caution: The results obtained from testing reflect only the condition of the
concrete floor at the time of testing. Further, it is highly recommended that
the test site or building be at the same temperature and humidity expected
during normal use. These conditions are required to be maintained 48 hrs
prior to, and during testing. The installation of a permanent, effective
moisture vapor retarder with a minimum thickness of 0.010 inch and a
permanency of 0.1 perms, as described in ASTM Specification E 1745, is
required under all on-grade or below-grade concrete floors.
10. Relaxing/Conditioning Carpet – To minimize wrinkling and buckling and to
facilitate installation, it is highly recommended that carpet be unrolled and allowed to
relax in the installation area for a time period that conforms to the requirements of
the manufacturer of the product being installed. (See Section 7.2 Ambient
Conditions) This time period will vary up to 72 hours, but should not be less that 24
hours at a temperature between 65-95ºF (18 -35ºC). Protect carpet adequately from
soil, dust, moisture and other contaminants. Sundry items, such as adhesives, should be
conditioned as well.
If these conditions are not attainable, contact flooring manufacturer
for applications to warranty.
Note: The allocation of time for the relaxation period should be included in the planning of the
job by all interested parties.
11. Ventilation - During installation, maintain air circulation by operating the HVAC
system at full capacity.
Note: For acceptable indoor air quality, fresh air ventilation in commercial spaces is
recommended to conform to current guidelines specified in ASHRAE Standard 62 published by
the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers
(www.ashrae.org
). Failure to comply could cause negative ramifications to the installation and
the indoor air quality.
12. Carpet Seam Edge Preparation