Damp Proof Membrane (DPM)
Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) is used to create a barrier between a concrete or screed subfloor and a wood floor. This barrier is intended to stop moisture passing from one to other. Damp Proof Membranes (DPMs) can be used to help resolve damp issues which already exist or to avoid moisture problems in the future.
Before starting the installation of wooden floor over a concrete or screed subfloor we always measure the moisture content of the subfloor we are dealing with. This is very important for us, as affects the future life of the floor. We are using approved, hand held moisture meter with a digital display, which is achieving one of the most reliable results, detecting the moisture levels of different building materials.
The product we are usually using is a two component, one coat, solvent free, low viscosity, epoxy primer and DPM called “SIKA MB Prime”. Application is by roller. The drying time is between 8 and 12 hours (depends on ventilation and temperature of the air). This product is recommended to be used with Water Under floor Heating Systems (UFH). Another benefit of this particular DPM is that it is creating smooth and reliable surface on which the adhesive is working perfectly.
Adhesive we are using is one component, solvent free, silane based adhesive that remains permanently elastic, keeping the grip, but on the same time allowing that slow motion movements of shrinking and expanding that all wooden floors do, to be done nice and smoothly.
Here you can find few pictures of DPM and the installation process.