Rapid-Set vs. Standard Underlayments: What You Need to Know Before You Pour
Why cure time, strength, surface prep, and jobsite conditions matter—and where LCB Rapid shines. When it comes to choosing the right self-leveling underlayment (SLU), the decision often comes down to one critical factor: time. Installers and flooring contractors are constantly balancing tight schedules, substrate conditions, and performance requirements—and the choice between a rapid-set and a…
A Contractor’s Guide to Substrate Conditions: What’s Too Damaged to Pour Over
Before any successful flooring installation, one truth stands firm: your pour is only as good as your substrate. No matter how advanced your self-leveler or underlayment may be, ignoring substrate conditions can lead to costly failures, callbacks, or complete tear-outs. This guide breaks down how to assess your substrate, identify when it’s too damaged to…
Why Your Subfloor Prep System Matters More Than the Underlayment Alone
When it comes to successful flooring installations, it’s easy to think the underlayment is the star of the show. After all, the self-leveling underlayment (SLU) is what creates the smooth, even surface that installers and end users notice most. But the truth is, a subfloor prep system is only as strong as its foundation—and that…
How to Choose a Moisture Mitigation System That Actually Works
Why Moisture Mitigation Matters Excessive moisture emitted from concrete can wreak havoc on flooring systems—leading to adhesive failure, surface blistering, efflorescence, mold growth, and costly reinstallation. Properly addressing moisture is critical to ensuring long-lasting, safe, and high-performing flooring systems. Understanding ASTM F3010 ASTM F3010 is the recognized standard practice for two-component resin-based membrane-forming moisture mitigation…
Gypsum Underlayment Repair: When to Restore vs. Replace
Gypsum underlayments—especially older installations in multifamily renovations—often suffer from a soft, chalky texture, surface cracks, and inadequate compressive strength. These issues compromise adhesive performance, visual quality, and durability under stress. Rather than defaulting to demolition, a systematic evaluation can save time, labor, and cost. Step 1: Diagnose the Damage—Restore or Replace? Start with a careful assessment:…
Your Essential Guide to Repairing Gypsum Underlayments
Renovating multi-family complexes often means stripping away old vinyl and carpet and pad products—and with them, exposing the underlying gypsum underlayment. Unfortunately, these substrates rarely meet the demands of today’s hard surface flooring installations. In this guide, we break down the common challenges of repairing gypsum underlayments, explain why proper remediation is critical, and outline…
Supplying Speed Without Sacrificing Quality & Service for Restoration of Pittsburgh-Based Thai Noodle Restaurant
When a busy Pittsburgh restaurant needed fast, durable floor restoration, FloorPrep delivered. Using Skimflow® LCB Rapid and PrepPro® SLV, the team completed a high-performance install—ready for foot traffic in just 90 minutes.
Top Challenges in Subfloor Preparation and How to Solve Them
When it comes to a successful flooring installation, the foundation starts with proper subfloor preparation. Unfortunately, many projects encounter challenges such as uneven surfaces, moisture issues, substrate movement, and adhesion problems. In today’s blog post, we’ll explore these common hurdles and reveal how FloorPrep by Dependable’s product library can help you overcome them with innovative,…
Moisture Mitigation in Concrete – Essential Insights
Concrete moisture challenges in new and renovation projects, especially concerning floor coverings, require careful consideration. New construction demands compliance with flooring specifications while addressing moisture concerns, while renovations often involve existing slabs emitting excessive moisture for new coverings.