close
Skip to content

Competencies covered

MSFFL2006: Prepare, select and apply smoothing and patching compounds

MSFFL2007: Select and apply appropriate compounds and additives

MSFFL2009: Select, prepare and apply moisture barriers and damp proof membranes to concrete sub-floors

Overview


Image for slide 1
Audio for slide 1 (mp3 |6|KB)
Moisture barriers are normally used in wet areas of buildings.

In residential homes these are generally limited to bathrooms and laundries.

But in commercial and public buildings they can include industrial kitchens, and particular areas of hospitals and aged care facilities.

hearing icon
Image for slide 2
Audio for slide 2 (mp3 |6|KB)
In addition to their use in wet areas, moisture barriers can also be applied to concrete subfloors to stop moisture from rising up through the slab and contacting the underside of the floor coverings.

In this section, we'll discuss the various sources of moisture and the different methods of transmission.

We'll also describe some of the processes used by flooring installers to apply liquid barriers and suppressants.

hearing icon

Completing this section

Audio 3 (mp3 |6|KB)

The assignment for this section will help to prepare you for the practical demonstrations you will need to perform for your assessor.

Have a look at the Assignment now to see what you'll need to do to complete it. You'll find the link in the menu bar.

Also in the menu bar are links to the lessons for this section:

  • Moisture and pH problems

  • On-site issues

  • Types of moisture barriers

  • Applying moisture barriers

  • Applying moisture suppressants.

These lessons will provide you with background information that will help you with the assignment.

The Just for fun page has an animated graphic showing how a liquid moisture barrier penetrates the pores in a concrete slab.

hearing icon