In a condo, and just discovered that the floor is actually gyp-crete, presumably over wood. Is a moisture bnarrier necesary? This is above grade.
Wood – Is a moisture barrier needed over gyp-crete (gypsum concrete) for wood / bamboo flooring
flooringhardwood-floormoistureunderlayment
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I agree with Steven about Dricore. I have used it and it is terrific for
- creating a moisture barrier
- giving a slightly softer feel underfoot than concrete
- serving as a great subfloor for almost any type of surface
However, I would seal the floor first (which I did) with a wateproofing product like Drylok.
One caution - do not seal the floor under a water pressure tank or filter system that sweats in the summer. Condensation from these systems often drip down and dissipate through raw concrete, but will pool if you seal it.
Keep the dehumidifier going. The moisture is still in the soil surrounding the foundation and will probably still percolate through the walls.
For what it's worth, what I wound up doing is using the Floor Muffler underlayment, which is its own moisture barrier. As per the directions, I applied it over the subfloor and about 2" up the walls.
It's hard to see, but I have indeed left an appropriate half inch expansion gap between the wood and the drywall. And this is engineered hardwood so I don't expect it to move all that much.
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Best Answer
The answer is :
Above grade doesn't mean above ground, necessarily.
If you are referring to concrete that rises out of the ground - then yes, you should put down a moisture barrier. Concrete is porous and moisture will (slowly) permeate the concrete if there's enough moisture around.
However, if the concrete is suspended - a concrete floor above ground with air below it - then no you won't need a moisture barrier.