When you’re investing in a new floor, the last thing you want is for hidden moisture to ruin your hard work and cost you money. The reality is, when you are working with concrete coating, moisture can be lurking beneath the surface and can cause serious problems like delamination. flooring failure. It’s a frustrating and costly issue that catches many by surprise.
At CustomCrete, we get it… flooring projects are a big commitment, and no one wants to spend all this money on repairs that could’ve just been avoided. We’ve been helping clients protect their concrete floors for 20 years, which means we’ve seen firsthand the damage moisture can cause when left unchecked. That’s why we’re committed to providing the right tools and products to keep your floors safe and durable.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at one of our favorite moisture vapor barrier products, RESUPrime MVB from Sherwin-Williams, a proven moisture mitigation solution, to help you weigh the costs and benefits. We’ll guide you through the essentials, so you can decide if this product is worth including in your project to safeguard your flooring investment for the long haul.
What is RESUPrime MVB and Why Does it Matter?
RESUPrime MVB is a moisture vapor barrier (MVB) solution from Sherwin-Williams. It’s designed to prevent moisture vapor from coming up through the porous concrete slab and affecting the coating above. This is especially important for spaces where moisture-related issues can lead to premature flooring failure, like warehouses, industrial facilities, or even some residential applications.
Moisture mitigation is necessary because:
- Excess moisture leads to floor damage:
If moisture is present in the flooring system, it can cause peeling, discoloration, or bubbling in epoxy coatings, adhesives, or tiles.
- Reduces future maintenance:
Applying a moisture vapor barrier like RESUPrime MVB can extend the life of your flooring system, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements down the road.
- Protects your investment:
Even a seemingly minor moisture issue can cause expensive issues over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
How Much Does RESUPrime MVB Cost?
The cost of RESUPrime MVB typically adds $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot, depending on the specifics of the job, including the size of the area, and the application method. For larger projects, the cost per square foot may drop slightly, so it’s important to get an accurate estimate based on your facility’s specific needs.
Let’s break down the costs further to help you make a more informed decision.
Calculating the Total Cost for a 5,000 Square Foot Area
What Does Standard Prep Involve?
To ensure proper bonding and effectiveness of moisture mitigation, surface preparation is essential. Shot blasting is the standard prep method used for RESUPrime MVB. Shot blasting involves using high-pressure abrasive shots to clean and roughen the concrete surface. This method prepares the substrate for the moisture barrier to be applied effectively.
Why Moisture Mitigation Matters: The True Cost of Ignoring It
You may be wondering: If I’m laying down flooring, do I really need a moisture barrier? The answer is, it depends because it always depends. Moisture Vapor Barrier coatings control for risk. Here’s why:
Protecting the Floor Installation:
If moisture emissions exceed the tolerance level of your flooring material, it can lead to costly damage. Epoxy coatings, adhesives, and tiles all have strict moisture tolerance levels. If these are exceeded, your flooring can warp, peel, or crack, leading to expensive repairs or replacements. A moisture barrier like RESUPrime MVB prevents that from happening.
Avoiding Expensive Repairs:
Installing a moisture barrier upfront is far more cost-effective than dealing with the damage caused by high moisture levels. Flooring failures can lead to downtime, operational delays, and a complete reinstallation—each of which can be significantly more expensive than the cost of moisture mitigation.
Long-Term Protection and Peace of Mind:
Moisture mitigation doesn’t just protect the floor—it helps ensure the durability of the entire system. A strong, effective moisture barrier will keep your floors intact longer, reducing the need for repairs and replacements. This can result in long-term savings and a better return on investment.
What Factors Can Affect the Total Cost of Moisture Mitigation?
While the price for RESUPrime MVB is relatively straightforward, there are several factors that may influence the total cost of your project:
Existing Floor Conditions:
If the concrete slab is in poor condition, it may require extra prep work beyond shot blasting, such as repairs or leveling. This can increase the overall cost of the project.
Size and Scope of the Project:
Larger spaces may benefit from volume discounts, but they also require more material and labor, which can increase the cost.
Application Method:
Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the application method may vary. For example, a smooth application might be faster, but a more intricate application could require more labor and time, impacting costs.
Accessibility:
If your floor is on a high floor or tucked away somewhere where it is hard for our team to get our machinery, the labor to get our equipment in place will go up. Simple things like a loading dock or a freight elevator can help control for this cost.
Custom Requirements:
If your project has unique needs, such as specific thickness requirements or resistance levels, this can also affect the cost.
Is RESUPrime MVB Worth the Cost?
Absolutely. The cost of moisture mitigation with RESUPrime MVB is a smart investment that pays off in the long term. By preventing damage caused by moisture vapor, you are ensuring that your flooring will last longer, perform better, and remain structurally sound.
While the upfront cost may seem significant, especially when factoring in surface preparation like shot blasting, the alternative, dealing with moisture-related damage, floor failures, and repairs, can be far more expensive. Moreover, RESUPrime MVB’s VOC compliance and durability add further value, ensuring a safe and sustainable flooring solution.
Moisture mitigation should be viewed less as an optional add-on but as a necessary step in protecting your flooring investment and controlling for risk. For commercial, industrial, or residential projects, choosing a product like RESUPrime MVB offers peace of mind and long-term savings, making it well worth the cost. To learn more about how MVB’s can help with your needs, get a quote on your project needs.
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