Gypcrete problems Some people claim that Jun 25, 2025 · Synthetic roof underlayment has quickly become popular in modern roofing, but it isn’t without drawbacks. The gypcrete that is currently General contractors return to us again and again because we’re known for hitting schedules and solving problems. Here are the top 5 applications for gypsum underlayment in commercial construction: Application 1 – Fire rating For commercial buildings that Common Synthetic Roof Underlayment Problems & Solutions: What You Need to Know If you're like many homeowners, you have probably seen synthetic roof underlayment used on either your own roof, or when observing the construction of a neighbour's home. Dec 6, 2024 · Discover 14 common problems with synthetic roof underlayment and how to address them for better roof performance and durability. This material is self-leveling, which makes it easy to work with. Why Won’t It Stick? Many installers experience a huge problem when applying flooring on new or old gypsum substrates: their glue or patch just won’t stick to the slab. What is the easiest way to patch this rotted wood? Can I just try remove as much rotted wood as possible and use epoxy sealer? Hi. Proper acclimation in service conditions and detailed documentation are essential to prevent costly failures and ensure successful installations. The product is normally batched onsite and pumped into place. In this comprehensive homeowner’s guide, we’ll explore seven key problems with synthetic roof underlayment that Jun 17, 2025 · Common Problems Associated with Gypcrete Have you ever installed Gypcrete and wondered why it sometimes doesn’t perform as expected? While Gypcrete has many advantages, it also comes with specific issues. When it comes to installing vinyl plank and tile (LVP/LVT) flooring over these substrates it is important to prepare them properly. In some cases, the surface will exhibit the defects described above. We know that thinset to gypcrete directly is a bad idea, and are looking […] My problem is the whole damn unit has 1 1/2-2 inches of the gypcrete that is 30 years old. Apr 29, 2016 · Originally on top of this plywood part is 1. Maybe the front entry and the small kitchen area but not all 1000 sq ft of it. Synthetic roof underlayment has become increasingly popular due to its durability and ease of installation compared to traditional felt underlayment. But now I don't know what to do with this. One common problem is cracking. Typically, gypsum floor underlayments are installed as subfloors in apartments, hotels, condominiums, and senior living facilities. S. The most effective solution is to remove and replace the damaged gypcrete. ft living room, 1/2" thick Maxxon Gypcrete over 3/4 plywood, Float-Installing The causes of delamination in self-leveling underlayments Although MAPEI self-leveling underlayments (SLUs) are designed to succeed within a wide range of application and service environments, from time to time complaints arise about the underlayment pulling away (delaminating) from the substrate below it. May 17, 2023 · Explore the problems with synthetic roof underlayment. Synthetic roof underlayment can last up to 40 years but may break down when exposed to extreme temperatures and When gypsum underlayment is installed incorrectly, it can become chalky, weak, and unsafe—making new flooring nearly impossible to install. Normal living-underneath-someone stuff. After conducting an extensive series of comprehensive tests, the entire Firm-Fill® Gypsum Concrete Underlayment product line received new evaluation reports, ICC-ES 3386 and IAPMO UES-474, certifying that these gypsum Sep 18, 2013 · Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Uneven / Cracked Gypcrete floor - Hello All, I am seeking advice for my laminate floor installation on the 2nd floor master bedroom of my townhome. Today, we will be reviewing common Quikrete concrete resurfacer problems. Is this a problem with old gypsum, or is she confused about what kind of flooring it is, or water damage? Any help would be appreciated. This article aims to expose these myths and provide information about the benefits of using gypsum-based concrete Jan 7, 2016 · Gypsum is a mineral that has been used in building materials for centuries. I have removed all of the old laminate installed by the previous owner and am now faced with a dilemma. to anyone. 6K votes, 169 comments. It was a given that the radiant installer direct all aspects of the in-foor system. Problems related to vinyl plank flooring include being prone to discoloration, stains, scratches, peeling, cracking, and crumbling at the edges. Learn key differences, pros, cons, and which material suits your home’s needs. Mar 31, 2006 · Hey guys, here is what I'm dealing with: 5 yr old condo, 400 sq. GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Additionally, most brands of lightweight, cellular concrete do not have recognition from code oficials that show them to be in compliance with the current Uniform Building Code. Apply the gypsum underlayment and appropriate primer in strict accordance with the underlayment manufacturer’s guidelines. On materials, you can get aluminum sheets for ~$1sqft combined with 1/2″ plywood cut into strips, and that would save $10,000. We have a third floor condo that flooded, the living room floor now sags about two inches to the center. in radiant. o. There are lots of posts on the internet about problems related to trying to glue wood, concrete or tile directly to Gyp-Crete. Apr 3, 2010 · I have a house built about 30 years ago. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. It slows things down, introduces risk, and adds more steps than most projects can justify. 1 day ago · AirGuard underlayment represents a high-performance solution for protecting the subfloor and enhancing the comfort of floating floors. He said his carpet saleslady told him the do a lot of motels with gypsum floors that have turned to powder and they can't do a thing with them. Here are some repair options to consider if your Jul 19, 2025 · If the gypcrete in a condo is significantly damaged, merely patching the floor won't suffice. I have a problem. I have been told that I have gypcrete subfloors. Gypcrete is a mixture of gypsum, sand and Portland cement. Talk to anyone who's managed a multifamily construction project, and they'll tell you the same thing. Gypcrete does not reccommend pouring over 3 in thickness, however, no special instructions were given by them. The time now is 09:48 PM. What do you guys do? Also is there an allowable moisture I'm looking for informed comment and/or advice on a plan to repair cracks in my 1-1/2" thick gypsum-based (gypcrete) floor. Feb 20, 2024 · Gypcrete, also known as gypsum concrete, is a relatively affordable building material that offers many benefits for construction and renovation projects. Problem: The floor is broken up into fairly large sections that are separated by hairline cracks. Jun 9, 2025 · The Problem With Gypsum Underlayment Gypsum underlayment might be the industry standard, but it’s far from perfect. This video walks through USG’s proven 3-step repair Gypsum Underlayment (also known as gypsum floor, gyp floor, gypsum concrete or gyp concrete) is a building material composed of a mixture of gypsum plaster, portland concrete, and sand. We have multilpe areas that aren’t level. . Not with my current budget. Jan 24, 2023 · How to Repair Gypcrete in a Condo? If you have noticed that the gypcrete subfloor in your condo needs repair, you first need to assess the extent of the damage. Not counting my labor of course Jun 24, 2012 · All times are GMT -6. Occasional hard footsteps, squeaking, light banging what Jul 16, 2006 · Please help! I live in a 6 y. Aug 19, 2007 · Are problems due to the lack of curing time, or is it because thermal expansion rates between gypcrete and tiles (natural or ceramic) are different and thus causes separation and cracks. What do I have to do to instal tile over it? If I have to put down a backerboard how do I attach it to the gypcrete? Sep 10, 2024 · Uncover the drawbacks of magnesium oxide board in this insightful blog post. condo w/ gypcrete floors on the second level of the house - which is over a garage. Other problems, resulting from improper job conditions and application practices, are the direct responsibility of the contractor and are con-trollable. The Lady of the house asked me if removing glued down linoleum years from now would "pull up" the Gyp-crete. Floor has some deep cracks in one spot by toilet and one spot in kitchen, About 4-5 cracks radiate out for maybe 2 feet. Oct 12, 2017 · GypCrete construction flooring is best tested by using a drywall moisture meter on the gypsum reading scale. AirGuard is designed as a comprehensive system to address the primary concerns of moisture damage, noise transmission Jan 26, 2012 · I'm working in a Condo right now that was built in 1989 with standard wood not PT with a 1. What is gypsum concrete, how does is compared to regular concrete, what are the advantages and disadvantages etc. Imagine an installation where the installer follows their usual routine but the assembly Jul 29, 2022 · Will DITRA Help with Tile Installation Over Gypcrete? You don’t have to do much research to know that gypcrete isn’t a suitable substrate for tiles. 5"-thick wood, while the rest is gypcrete. As a result, several myths about using gypsum in this way have become canonized. It is typically used as a subfloor, with another type of flooring, such as hardwood or tile, over the top of the gypcrete. Maxxon Industries makes five different gypsum underlayments for resilient flooring, they also have a line of gypsum self leveling Gypsum is a mineral that has been used in building materials for centuries. A flooring underlayment can help to smooth out any remaining peaks and valleys in the subfloor and prevent problems down the line. Feb 20, 1999 · Your problem has now become one of how to get the builder to own up to the problem. While manufacturers tout its benefits, there are common problems with synthetic roof underlayment that every property owner and contractor should know. He also claims that gypcrete does not shrink. My neighbors have 2 young boys and the noise has been normal for the past 3 years. If you intend to use it on your concrete floor or sidewalk, you must know about these issues. Synthetic roof underlayment problems are often due to low quality or poor installation. There are several alternatives, such as staple up from underneath. When installing modern flooring types like laminate and engineered wood, a quality underlayment is necessary to ensure long-term performance. Click Here! However, I am having trouble deciding on which system to implement. It is easier to install and lighter than concrete floors. It’s new construction- we’ve yet to make the […] Aug 24, 2023 · Are you facing problems with your peel and stick roofing underlayment? This blog post presents nine peel and stick roofing problems and their solutions. The time now is 04:22 AM. Oct 4, 2022 · I'm trying to decide whether to redo a gypcrete floor underlayment completely or just repair what I can and go with it. I am going to tile all after fixing this and patching everything. Problem is that those panels go for something like $5 a square foot, which really adds up. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. What is the best method for fixing or bridging these cracks for a vinyl sheet goods floor? Thanks Gary Dec 24, 1998 · *What does Gyp-Crete have to say about it? If possible could you outline the conditions between pour and startup of the floors ie: ambient air temperature, water temperature, time between placement of Gyp-Crete and startup of floorheat, etc. However, gypsum concrete as an underlayment is still misunderstood despite its growth in popularity over the last 40 years. You’ll Jan 7, 2016 · Gypsum is a mineral that has been used in building materials for centuries. These include curling, warping, peaking, and mold and mildew. Its unique properties allow the mixture to be stronger, more lightweight, and flexible than regular concrete. When a gypcrete subfloor starts to crack, it becomes chalky and soft. I have heard good and bad things for gypcrete, Warmboard, and Quik Trak. However, framing, workmanship, building or structural movement can cause cracking, beading, or ridging of joints in gypsum panel assemblies Need Help Cracking Gypcrete - Loud Noises? Hi. Gypcrete is actually a kind of gypsum underlayment, made by Maxxon Industries. Unlike traditional concrete, which uses Portland cement as its binder, Gypcrete uses gypsum as the primary ingredient. I want to put tile in the bathroom. Priming the surface also encapsulates any dusty conditions and prevents the adhesive from being absorbed into the substrate. Concerned if synthetic roof underlayment problems are major issues? Learn about their costs, risks, and benefits. Floor Leveling Lightweight Concrete ContractorWe specialize in Floor Leveling, Lightweight Concrete, Gypsum Concrete (GypCrete), Self Leveling Concrete, Sound Control Systems and Commercial Pours. One of the best solutions you will come across is to use DITRA. Any comments, suggestions, or experiences would be greatly welcomed including any that would suggest another product or even change my mind to a cheaper forced air system! Aug 28, 2023 · Gypcrete Features and Uses Gypsum concrete is a lightweight cement-like underlayment that flooring contractors use as subflooring material before laying final floor coverings. PREPARING GYPCRETE AND LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE FOR LVP/LVT INSTALLATION Both gypcrete and lightweight concrete are considered very porous substrates. Despite its many advantages, a gypcrete subfloor is susceptible to cracking and other kinds of damage. Gypcrete vs. Sep 1, 2021 · Synthetic roof underlayment is an excellent product, but there are 3 problems with synthetic roof underlayment that you should be aware of. Jun 7, 2018 · USG offers cost-effective gypsum concrete underlayment to help keep residential projects quieter and safer. After starting a new wood flooring project for a client we quickly realized that the new gypcrete had been completely Thinking about installing vinyl plank flooring? It’s an affordable and effective method to transform your space. Aug 30, 2015 · doing semi charity job in condo with gypcrete over radiant hot water tubes. Apr 6, 2009 · The basic problem with gypcrete is it's got a portion of gypsum in it instead of all concrete (which gives it it's benefits of being lighter than concrete and more sound deadening), but the gypsum will deteriorate with moisture so tile set directly to it is in risk of having the bond degrade over time. Your mission, if you decide to accept it, is to get the builder to cooperate with you in addressing the primary problem and help to resolve it. Let’s take a closer look at where the problems start. Nov 21, 2021 · Gypcrete, the common spelling for a trademarked brand of gypsum concrete by Maxxon, is correctly known by its industry designation — Gyp-Crete®. 5 years. What is your experience with having to finish drywall around gypcrete? Are office argues and argues you cant pour gypcrete until after walls are primed and not in the middle of finishing to avoid a bad finish. Because of its lightweight nature, gypsum concrete is only helpful as Jun 22, 2024 · Looking to install a peel and stick roofing underlayment? Learn about the five common problems you may face with this type of roof underlayment. Over time, gypcrete will begin to crack and crumble from regular use. This guide examines key issues such as installation mistakes, moisture problems, durability concerns, environmental impact, and more MULTIFAMILY PROCEDURES GUIDE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS AND FLOORING INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS FOR MAXXON UNDERLAYMENTS. Sep 2, 2023 · Wood flooring installation problems on our engineered wood flooring project. Nov 4, 2025 · Flooring installation failures related to underlayment performance, or lack thereof, have been steadily increasing. Apr 29, 2024 · High-quality synthetic underlayment provides insulation and acts as a vapor barrier for your roof. Objective: I Jul 16, 2024 · The choice of underlayment is crucial for the longevity and performance of your roof. It's best to pair your underlayment with proper roof ventilation to eliminate moisture buildup. The gyp was poured right onto the plywood subfloor with no barrier. Jun 29, 2017 · Looking for some input here. This guide highlights the ten most common pitfalls and how to avoid them, so your flooring project is smooth, successful, and stunning. Nov 1, 2006 · We have a gypcrete pour over pex and we want to lay tile on top of it. Feb 21, 2017 · Contractors install a material called gypcrete as an underlay on floors for sound control and fire protection. When I walk on a section, it moves just a tiny bit, causing its edges to rub against adjacent sections. Discover issues, and effective solutions to ensure a successful roofing project. In this chapter these problems as well as corrective remedies and preventive measures are discussed. However, remember that an underlayment can’t work miracles, so don’t count on it as your only solution. Installation of gypcrete is done by experienced professionals who level the material over the surface based on the type of subflooring in the room. dilemma . I cannot afford to replace it all. -made products. Jan 3, 2023 · Thinking about synthetic underlayment? Learn the common problems with synthetic roof underlayment in Florida. However, five common problems with synthetic roof underlayment could put your home at risk. Often this will include priming the gypcrete or lightweight concrete prior to applying adhesive. There are also certain installation-related failures that you need to watch out for. Servicing the Los Angeles Guys, I have zero overpour experience. These are additional explanations for its widespread use in apartments and condos. Dec 28, 2005 · To install hardwood correctly over gypcrete, you install a deck, pour the gypcrete with PEX embedded, then install another deck on top of the gypcrete, and then you can nail the hardwood down. It was inspected and is structurally ok. (I keep saying "problem"; actually, this is a great OPPORTUNITY for the builder to get some great positive advertisement). The gypcrete can be repaired, but it may be a challenging project for a do-it During our kitchen remodel the contractor removed our existing tile floor, thus exposing the gypcrete subfloor. Once all this was removed there were lots of nail holes and large gouges in the gypcrete. The only problem is that some sections have settled and the gyp has cracked. Cracks can develop due to improper installation, like pouring it too thin. Aug 27, 2025 · What Is Gypcrete Flooring? Gypcrete flooring, sometimes called gypsum concrete, is a type of lightweight concrete made from a mixture of gypsum plaster, water, and other additives. In most cases where we’ve been involved, the underlayment was not considered Aug 15, 2023 · This article presents some common problems with synthetic roof underlayment. These are recommendations for the best The problem is simple – the old gypsum underlayment is not suitable to support the ‘hard surface’ products being used today. XL Brands recommends that gypsum-based underlayment be primed (XL Brands Prelude) prior to the application of adhesive to improve the bonding surface. But because it was the first trademarked gypsum underlayment flooring product to hit the market in 1972, it has a longstanding history of simply being called Gypcrete. Feb 2, 2024 · Synthetic roof underlayment offers dependability and affordability. Has anyone here ever put a sealer on gypcrete for dust controll while the other work is in progress? Any problems? Plan “B” is mechanical […] Mar 14, 2007 · All times are GMT -6. Has anyone on here had bad luck with Gypcrete, specifically Gypcrete in radiant installations? Jun 24, 2015 · Gypsum Underlayment Toppings and How to Handle Them Gypsum toppings or underlayments, often referred to “Gypcrete” continue to present problems to the resilient flooring industry. 2 days ago · Contributing editor Lew Migliore talks about flooring failures that can arise due to poor installation or quality control issues during the manufacturing process and what consumers should be on Oct 3, 2012 · Primers and Adhesives Although it’s very stable chemically speaking, Gyp-Crete is relatively soft and becomes dusty which makes it challenging for flooring contractors. Didn’t want to deal with staple up issues or gypcrete. This results in annoying crunching and crackling sounds. As a lightweight flooring underlayment and soundproofing solution made primarily from gypsum, gypcrete provides thermal insulation, fire Jan 19, 2004 · Just completed a gypcrete installation for a home’s RFH. Feb 3, 2002 · * I’m building a house and have been planning to use Stadler Climate Panels or equiv. Repairing cracking and crumbling Gypcrete floors typically is a job best left to Learn all about Gypcrete here. During the renovation of multifamily complexes, the removal of the old finished floor covering and pad products will expose the gypsum underlayment. The problem is simple – the old gypsum underlayment is not suitable to support the ‘hard surface’ products being used today. 5" gypcrete floor and it has no problems with any kind of wood decay from the gypcrete. Their sustainable products can also be used in renovations, applied directly over old concrete. However, some issues and complaints have been launched against it. Eventually, the gypcrete crumbles into pieces, and there is a possibility of detaching completely from the floor beneath. Thankfully, there is a simple method for making gyspum Nov 20, 2024 · Before installing moisture-sensitive flooring products, contractors must conduct thorough substrate testing for moisture and pH levels across concrete, gypcrete, and wood materials. Read the blog post to make the right decision for your property. Complex Multi-Step Oct 27, 2022 · This flooring solution has its share of problems. This seems to me to be very labor intensive, and expensive. 11M subscribers in the oddlysatisfying community. Our team of experts can help you solve your Floor Underlayment Needs for all types of projects: Renovations, Custom Homes, Multi-Family, Hotels, and Commercial Projects. In addition, damaged gypsum floors bring with it the following issues: Jan 29, 2025 · Gypcrete is a common subflooring material in condominiums due to its soundproof and fire resistance. Jun 5, 2023 · Gypcrete will quite literally crumble into sand over time. I live in a condo with upstairs neighbors, been here 3. Gypcrete contains cement, sand and gypsum. More often than not, this is attributed to gypsum lacking the integrity to accept many floor coverings. As the largest applicator / installer in the state, ColoradoCrete has the experience, manpower, and fleet of equipment to complete any type of underlayment project. Step 4: Use a flooring underlayment to smooth out any remaining inconsistencies. #14: Gypcrete Is a Bit Softer Gypcrete is just a bit softer than concrete, another reason why many choose it for floor underlayment. But, if you’re not careful, mistakes can ruin the look and longevity of your floors. For those little things that are inexplicably satisfying. Originally the gypcrete was covered in linoleum and the previous installers had put hardibacker over that with nails and laid tile. I met with the gypcrete installer and the contractor and the gypcrete guy claims that gypcrete never cracks unless there are structural problems. Occasional hard footsteps, squeaking, light banging what have you. Home > Services Gypsum Concrete Underlayment Before the 1970s, regular concrete was primarily used for floor underlayment applications. I am hoping someone smarter than me can provide me with some insight here. Aug 14, 2025 · Compare gypcrete vs concrete to choose the best for your project. Oct 21, 2022 · There is no doubt that Quikrete concrete is an incredible resurfacer. Mar 6, 2024 · PABCO PRO Tip: Ridging, Beading and Cracking of Gypsum Panels – Causes, Prevention and Fixes Mar 6, 2024 By Deborah Callaway Manager, Technical Services Gypsum is a very stable material with little shrinkage or expansion due to environmental conditions. This not only affects aesthetics but can also compromise performance over time Jul 4, 2006 · We’re having problems with uneven flooring. In addition, damaged gypsum floors bring with Dec 11, 2015 · Gypsum underlayments are becoming more and more popular with contractors and are presenting more and more problems in the flooring industry. This gives it unique properties that make it ideal for specific flooring applications. The wrong type of underlayment was used under the old floors (plastic?) and probably trapped moisture underneath. Concrete: Which of the Two Should You Use? Are there really any problems with synthetic roof underlayment? We tackle the pros and cons of this innovative roofing product in this ultimate guide. The funny bit about the internet is that people have varying opinions. Joe Apr 30, 2023 · 7 Ditra installation tips such as how loose to mix your mortar, why your Ditra ends may be curling, and avoiding common installation problems 6 days ago · By Lew Migliore Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is the hottest product on the market today, and it’s also the product that’s generating the most number of complaints and claims in the flooring Gyp-Crete Basic underlayment is a cost-effective solution for interior wood subfloors. The floor is not Mar 31, 2006 · 1. the GC is a neophyte and asked the radiant installer specifically to "look after" the installation, as he had no previous exp. You can use gypsum concrete to level uneven floor surfaces in your commercial space. I find both difficult to believe. Ceiling selector for SAPBoard subfloor board, subfloor panels eliminate gypcrete problems. Treadwell’s gyp is non-shrinking, fast curing and ready for light trade traffic in 1 hour and Mar 23, 2007 · The movement of the gypcrete appears to be stretching the vinyl flooring causing the wrinkles. But if you must tile over the gypcrete floor, you will start to look for solutions. It is gypcrete (infloor heating), with engineered wood on top. Money was not at issue. Gypsum underlayments also known as gypsum concrete is used as a floor underlayment in wood-framed construction for fire ratings, sound reduction and floor leveling. 2. Gyp-Crete® 2000 Multifamily The trusted choice for interior wood subfloors, delivering fire safety, sound attenuation and 2,000–3,200 psi. The majority of it is covered by carpeting and I havent pulled it up yet to inspect it throughout the condo, so its condition is unknown but probably in a similar We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. For soundproofing and radiant floor heating, contractors use gypcrete flooring. Protect your projects with Maxxon’s top-tier subfloor warranties, expert support, and reliable, U. Learn about its limitations and make informed construction decisions. Shortly thereafter, a revolutionary material comprised of gypsum plaster, Portland cement, and sand was invented and took the industry by storm. yntltji hbxfmc fgkht nuhxn wufzh ycthmzll mlne mmlk pppef zyf qppnsm cdwc myezba hqy fus