

Exclusive Services
Unique services that we provide to consumers and the flooring industry include, micro-shearing, spot-dying, pile-lifting, steam-correction, anti-static treatment for carpets, and spot cleaning for hard-to-clean spots. Oh, and of course, we always offer a truly third-party floor consultation, review, or inspection with a report for all types of flooring.
Tramex Non-invasive Moisture Mapping

Tramex Non-Invasive Moisture Mapping (Flooring)
Find moisture fast—without drilling holes or disrupting occupants. Our Tramex mapping service gives you a clear, room-by-room picture of where vapor is entering, accumulating, or being trapped under your floors so you can fix the cause, not just the symptoms.
What it is
We use professional Tramex instruments (e.g., ME5/CME5) to scan large areas quickly and non-destructively. Readings are taken on a comparative scale at slab depth (typically ~¾–1¼ in. depending on material) and plotted into a plan-view moisture heatmap.
When to use it
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Before installation of SPC/LVP/laminate/wood to screen for high RH zones
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After failures (cupping, peaking, buckling, white edges, adhesive release)
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To trace leaks or slab vapor drive patterns (entries, wet walls, plumbing lines)
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To prioritize mitigation (pinpoint where to place RH probes, where to treat)
What we do (step by step)
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Baseline survey – Visual, perimeter, and flatness checks to note risk factors.
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Grid scan – Non-invasive Tramex readings on a documented grid (e.g., 2–4 ft spacing; tighter near anomalies).
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Corroboration – Targeted checks (FLIR thermography for thermal anomalies, spot pH, and—if requested—ASTM F2170/F1869 validation).
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Mapping – We convert readings into a color-coded moisture map with legends, thresholds, and annotations (doorways, cabinetry, sun exposure).
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Action plan – Clear recommendations: mitigation (6-mil poly, epoxy/urethane systems), drying, repairs, or further ASTM testing per F710.
Why it helps
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Non-destructive & fast: Scan thousands of square feet in a visit.
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See the pattern: Identify vapor pathways, perimeter wetting, or direct-glue “hot spots.”
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Reduce guesswork: Place RH probes where it matters and cut unnecessary cores.
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Protect warranties: Tie decisions to manufacturer limits and ASTM references (F2170/F1869/F710).
Typical deliverables
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PDF report with plan-view heatmaps, photo documentation, and reading tables
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Clearly marked elevated vs normal zones (based on product thresholds)
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Root-cause hypotheses (vapor drive, intrusion, cleaning/maintenance, HVAC)
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Prioritized next steps (mitigation options, transitions, vapor retarder details)
Important note
Tramex mapping is an excellent screening and diagnostic tool. For specification and warranty decisions, we can add ASTM F2170 (in-situ RH) or F1869 (CaCl) testing as required by the product manufacturer.
Seeing cupping, clicking, or adhesive release? A non-invasive moisture map is the fastest path to answers—and a real fix. Let’s map it, verify it, and solve it.
Tile and Stone High Edges (Lippage)

What It Is—and What’s Acceptable
Seeing sharp or “proud” tile edges? That’s called lippage—the height difference between the edges of neighboring tiles. Sometimes it’s true edge height; other times, lighting, shallow grout, or tight joints make normal variation look worse than it is.
What affects what you see
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Lighting & reflections (raking light, windows, cans)
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Grout joint depth/contrast
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Joint width (tight joints can make small changes look bigger)
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Tile warpage (all tiles have some inherent bow/twist)
How acceptable lippage is determined
We don’t guess—we measure and compare to ANSI criteria:
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Measure average grout joint width
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Joints < 1/4" → base allowance 1/32"
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Joints ≥ 1/4" → base allowance 1/16"
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Measure tile warpage (edge and diagonal bow) on the actual tile used.
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Calculate the limit = base allowance + measured warpage
If the actual step between adjacent tiles exceeds that total, it’s out of tolerance.
Bottom line: it’s not as simple as sliding a credit card or coin across a joint. Proper gauges and methods matter.
How we help
We perform a standards-based lippage assessment and deliver a clear, photo-rich report that:
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Confirms whether the installation and the tile itself meet ANSI tolerances
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Explains why an area passes or fails (lighting artifacts vs. true high edges)
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Outlines practical remedies for installers, dealers, builders, or homeowners
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Want facts instead of opinions? We’ll cut through the noise and give you defensible, easy-to-understand results.
Laminate Flooring

Laminate & “Waterproof” Laminate — Inspection, Failure Analysis & Pre-Install QC
Laminate (including today’s “waterproof” varieties) can look incredible—and still fail fast if the subfloor, moisture, or movement details aren’t right. We diagnose clicks, gaps, buckling, and swollen edges, then give you a clear, defensible fix.
When to call us
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Joints gapping, clicking, or popping when walked on
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Peaked short- or long-edges, or boards that feel spongy/rocky
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Swollen/whitened edges or chipping at bevels
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Buckling in doorways, halls, or wide spans
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“Waterproof” laminate that still warps after spills or cleaning
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Planning a new install and want objective spec + QC up front
What we inspect
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Subfloor flatness & deflection: 1/8" in 6' or 3/16" in 10' tolerance; bounce/deflection that breaks locks
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Moisture & pH (concrete): ASTM F2170 (in-situ RH), F1869 (CaCl) vs. product/adhesive limits; pH per F710
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Vapor retarder: 6-mil poly (seams taped) over on-grade concrete for floating installs—present, continuous, undamaged
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Underlayment: type, thickness, compressive strength, and whether it’s compatible (no double-padding)
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Movement allowances: true 1/4" perimeter clearance; undercut casings; no glue/caulk pinning the floor
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Transitions & spans: breaks at doorways/changes of direction; long runs per manufacturer (often 30–40+ ft)
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Locking system health: engagement, edge damage, profile wear from traffic/rolling loads
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Acclimation & storage: cartons conditioned; HVAC stable (typically 60–85°F, 35–65% RH unless spec says otherwise)
How we test & document
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Moisture: ASTM F2170/F1869 readings, plus surface mapping with professional meters
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Flatness: straightedge + feeler/taper gauges; map high/low spots causing clicks/peaks
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Deflection: quantify up/down movement at joints (root cause of “walking apart”)
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Edge lift/curl: 9" straightedge + gauge to measure thousandths at joints
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Dimensional checks: board width change vs. carton/attic stock; joint stagger verification
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Thermal/light mapping: identify solar gain areas that amplify movement/noise
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Photo-rich report: plain-English root cause + code/manufacturer references + prioritized corrections
Common failures we resolve
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Buckling/peaking from missing perimeter gaps, glued transitions, or cabinets pinning a “floating” floor
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Gapping/clicking from poor flatness or soft/stacked underlayments that let joints pump apart
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Edge swell/white lines from slab vapor, wet mopping, or steam mops (voids many warranties)
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Lock damage from rolling loads (office chairs, wheelchairs, appliances) crossing uneven seams
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“Waterproof” confusion: Topical-spill resistance ≠ immunity to subfloor vapor or trapped moisture
Right product, right space (quick guidance)
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Kitchens/living areas: OK with proper vapor retarder, flat slab, and real transition breaks
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Basements/on-grade: floating over taped 6-mil poly minimum; consider moisture mitigation if RH is high
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Wet rooms (showers, saunas): not appropriate—use true resilient/porcelain solutions
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Heavy rolling loads: consider SPC/LVT glue-down; laminate locks aren’t designed for constant shear
Standards & references we work to
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Manufacturer installation guides & warranty terms
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ASTM F710 (concrete prep), F2170/F1869 (moisture), product-specific span/transition rules
Deliverables you receive
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Root-cause report with measurements, moisture data, and annotated photos
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Corrective action plan: subfloor prep, moisture mitigation, transition layout, re-rack details
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Preventive spec: underlayment/vapor retarder, span limits, rolling-load policy, and approved maintenance
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Owner care guide: no steam mops; approved cleaners; humidity targets to keep joints stable
Have laminate that clicks, cups, or keeps separating—“waterproof” or not?
We’ll separate marketing from physics, show exactly why it’s misbehaving, and give you a clean path to a quiet, flat, warrantable floor.
Hardwood Flooring

Wood Flooring Inspections (Solid & Engineered)
Hardwood should feel rock-solid, look flat, and move quietly. If yours is cupping, gapping, crowning, or just “doesn’t feel right,” we’ll pinpoint why—using NWFA- and ASTM-based methods—and give you a clear path to resolution.
What we inspect (and how)
Jobsite environment
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Temperature/RH vs. manufacturer & NWFA ranges (typically ~60–80°F and ~30–50% RH).
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Data-logged RH/temperature to catch daily swings that cause seasonal movement.
Moisture & EMC
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Flooring moisture content (pin/pinless meters) and subfloor moisture (wood or concrete).
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Concrete: ASTM F2170 in-situ RH (preferred) and pH; CaCl ASTM F1869 if specified.
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EMC alignment: difference between flooring & wood subfloor ≤2% for strip (≤3″) and ≤4% for plank (>3″) per NWFA.
Subfloor & flatness
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Flatness against tolerances (commonly 1/8″ in 6′ or 3/16″ in 10′).
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Fastener schedule (nail/staple spacing), adhesive trowel pattern & transfer (for glue-down), underlayment, and vapor retarder (e.g., ASTM E1745 over concrete).
Installation system
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Solid: nail/staple, glue-assist, or plywood-over-slab assemblies.
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Engineered: nail, glue-down, or float; click vs. tongue-and-groove; perimeter movement allowance; transitions.
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Radiant heat: max surface temps & ramp rates (typically ≤85°F/29°C) and species/format suitability.
Surface & performance
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Cupping/crowning mapping, end-lift, over-wood (lippage), hollow spots, edge crush, squeaks/creaks tracing, finish anomalies, UV/sun exposure, and water events.
Common symptoms we solve
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Cupping or crowning → moisture imbalance, slab emissions, or trapped vapor.
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Seasonal gaps / end-lift → EMC mismatch, insufficient expansion, or HVAC swings.
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Squeaks / hollow spots → fastener pattern, adhesive transfer, or flatness issues.
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Buckling / tenting → pinned perimeters, cabinets on floating floors, or rapid moisture gain.
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Finish issues → over-drying, contamination, or sunlight differentials.
Solid vs. Engineered—what matters
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Solid hardwood needs tight EMC control and correct nail/adhesive strategy; over concrete it requires the right vapor retarder and assembly.
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Engineered hardwood is more dimensionally stable, but still needs EMC alignment, flatness, and proper movement joints—especially on radiant heat or wide spans.
Deliverables you can act on
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Photo-rich, plain-English report with measurements, maps, and standards citations (NWFA, ASTM).
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Root-cause analysis (site vs. product vs. install) and prioritized corrective options.
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Documentation suitable for warranty claims, builder remediation, or settlement.
When to call us
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Before install (pre-install testing & sign-off)
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After a water event or HVAC outage
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Recurring cupping/gapping or “mystery” noises
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Disputes: installer vs. builder vs. manufacturer
Serving Las Vegas, Henderson & surrounding areas. Independent, standards-based, and laser-focused on wood: solid and engineered.
Sheet Vinyl and Resilent Flooring

Sheet Vinyl & Resilient Flooring — Inspection, Spec, & QA
Seam lift, bubbles, telegraphing, or dents showing up under rolling loads? With resilient floors—sheet vinyl, rubber, linoleum, VCT/LVT (glue-down)—substrate prep and moisture control decide everything. We help you get it right the first time—and fix it fast when it isn’t.
When to call us
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Seams opening, curling, or welds failing (heat- or chem-weld)
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Blisters/bubbles, hollow spots, or loss of bond
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Telegraphing of trowel ridges, cracks, or patch lines
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Indentations from furniture, beds, or casters (hot-tire marks too)
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Pattern mismatch, shade variation, or flashing/cove failures
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You’re planning a new install and want objective spec + QC
What we inspect
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Substrate readiness (ASTM F710): cleanliness, porosity, smoothness, flatness
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Moisture & pH compliance: concrete RH/MVER vs. adhesive limits; pH range suitability
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Surface smoothness: patch/skim quality, trowel mark removal, feathering at transitions
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Adhesive selection & application: wet-set vs. pressure-sensitive/epoxy/urethane; spread rate, trowel notch, open/working time, roll weight and timing
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Seams & edges: layout, back-bevel, seam sealing; heat-weld temperature, rod selection, profile flushness; chem-weld integrity
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Flash cove & corners: cove stick/cap metal, boot corners, inside/outside corner forming
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Rolling-load paths: shear risk at doorways, elevators, nurse stations, retail paths
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ESD/OR floors: copper tape grids, resistance targets, continuity to ground (where applicable)
How we test & document
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Moisture: ASTM F2170 (in-situ RH), ASTM F1869 (MVER), surface RH mapping
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pH: surface pH per F710; document compliance with adhesive specs
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Flatness & smoothness: 10-ft straightedge checks; oblique-light inspections for telegraph risk
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Adhesion checks: field bond evaluations (proper transfer, roll-down timing); targeted pull tests where appropriate
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Seam & weld QA: probe testing, temperature logs, weld flushness/undercut review
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Indentation risk: static load review vs. product spec (caster type, load per foot, chair mat needs)
Common failures we resolve
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Bubbles/blisters from moisture drive or trapped air (early roll-down / re-bedded adhesive)
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Seam curl & peaking from tension, under-rolling, or seam contamination
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Telegraphing of ridges/cracks from inadequate skim or substrate grinding
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Indentations & caster damage where static/rolling loads exceed product limits
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Cove & corner splits from poor forming or missing cove stick/cap metal
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Loss of bond at thresholds/ramps due to wrong adhesive or traffic too soon
Right product, right space
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Healthcare & labs: homogeneous sheet with heat-weld seams, integral cove, moisture-mitigated slab
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Education & corridors: high-performance sheet/LVT with pressure-sensitive adhesive and robust skim
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Retail & grocery: dense wear layers, urethane finish, documented rolling-load plan
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Back-of-house/kitchens: resilient suited for grease/cleaners; correct epoxy/urethane adhesive
Standards we work to
ASTM F710, F2170, F1869, manufacturer installation manuals, adhesive TDS, and heat-weld/chem-weld procedures. Where mitigation is required, we align with ASTM F3010 vapor retarder systems.
Deliverables you receive
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Clear root-cause report with photos, readings, and compliance matrix
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Corrective action plan (prep, patch/skim, moisture mitigation, adhesive changes)
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Pre-install QC templates your crew or installer can follow
Planning a new resilient install—or troubleshooting one that failed?
We’ll separate opinion from fact, align the spec with site conditions, and give you a clean, defensible path to a floor that performs.
Pre Istallation Assessments

What we test
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ASTM Moisture Assessments
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ASTM F2170 in-situ RH (internal slab humidity)
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ASTM F1869 calcium-chloride MVER (surface emissions), when appropriate
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Concrete pH Testing
Confirms compatibility with adhesives/patches and prevents bond failure. -
Slab Porosity/Absorbency
Determines primer/adhesive needs and open times. -
Flatness & Levelness
Documented straight-edge readings vs. manufacturer/ASTM tolerances to prevent peaking, hollow spots, and locking failures. -
Tramex Moisture Mapping
High-resolution, non-destructive scans that visualize moisture patterns across the slab—perfect for targeting mitigation and confirming dry-down.
Why it matters
Proper moisture, pH, porosity, and flatness are the foundation of a successful install. We deliver photo-rich, standards-referenced reports so you can proceed with confidence—or correct issues before they become callbacks.
Ready to schedule pre-install testing? Let’s lock in a time and protect your project.
Pre Istallation Assessments

Pre-Installation Assessments (Set Your Project Up for Success)
Before the first plank goes down, we verify that your slab and site are truly ready—so you don’t pay for the same floor twice.
What we test
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ASTM Moisture Assessments
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ASTM F2170 in-situ RH (preferred)
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ASTM F1869 CaCl (when specified)
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Concrete pH Testing – checks adhesive/patch compatibility
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Slab Porosity / Absorbency – confirms primer/adhesive needs & open times
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Flatness / Levelness – documented straight-edge readings vs. manufacturer & ASTM tolerances
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Tramex Moisture Mapping – high-resolution, non-destructive scans that visualize moisture patterns across the slab
Why it matters
Correct moisture, pH, porosity, and flatness are the foundation of a successful install. We deliver photo-rich, standards-referenced reports and clear pass/fail guidance, so you can fix risks before they become failures.
Carpet Inspection

Carpet Inspections (Residential & Commercial)
Carpet should look uniform, seams should disappear at a glance, and traffic lanes shouldn’t “crunch,” fuzz, or unzip. If yours is showing lines, mismatched shades, loose seams, or recurring spots, we’ll find out why—and what to do next—using CRI- and ASTM-based methods.
What we inspect (and how)
Installation quality (per CRI 104/105)
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Power-stretch vs. knee-kicker, tack-strip placement, and required expansion gap at walls
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Seam construction: row cutting, seam sealer on both cut edges, tape choice/iron temp, cooling time, seam placement relative to light/traffic
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Transitions & stairs: nosing wrap, metal placement, moldings
Subfloor & cushion
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Flatness/tolerance (typ. 1/8″ in 6′ or 3/16″ in 10′) and substrate prep
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Cushion type, thickness, and density compatibility with the carpet mill specs
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Moisture screening of slabs and wood substrates when relevant to claims
Pattern and appearance
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Pattern bow, skew, and elongation (pattern match tolerances)
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Side-match (shade difference between panels), shading/pile reversal, pooling, watermarking
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Seam peaking vs. true height offset (we separate lighting effects from real lippage)
Performance & construction
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Tuft bind screening (ASTM D1335 field pull-test)
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Delamination checks (secondary backing adhesion), zippering in loops, fuzzing/shedding, crushing/matting
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Spot/soil analysis: wicking, filtration soiling, residue from cleaning agents; pH checks when needed
Common symptoms we solve
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Visible seams or “lines” → seam peaking, poor row cut, inadequate sealer, or placement under raking light
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Side-match color concerns → lighting/viewing angle vs. panel variation vs. dye lot issues
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Pulled loops / “unzipping” → missing edge sealer or pet-related site damage
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Crunching or crackling → adhesive or latex granules under carpet, cushion issues, or subfloor contaminants
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Recurring spots → wicking from pad/subfloor or detergent residue
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Wrinkles/ripples → insufficient stretch, wrong pad, or environmental swings
Deliverables you can act on
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Photo-rich, plain-English report with measurements, diagrams, and standards citations (CRI / ASTM)
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Clear root-cause call (site vs. product vs. installation) and prioritized remedies
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Documentation suitable for builder/manufacturer claims or settlement
Optional add-ons
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Lab tuft-bind and materials testing
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Moisture/pH mapping for problem zones
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Remediation scope & contractor QA walkthroughs
When to call us
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Right after install if seams show, patterns don’t align, or tiles “wander”
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After water events or aggressive cleanings
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Before a costly replacement or dispute—get independent, standards-based answers first
Serving Las Vegas, Henderson, and surrounding areas. Independent, meticulous, and carpet-savvy—so you get real answers that lead to real solutions.
Carpet and Rug Services

Carpet & Rug Revival Services
Pile lifting • Spot dyeing • Feather blending (Las Vegas & surrounds)
Bring tired carpet and rugs back to life—without replacing them. We specialize in surgical, site-safe corrections that restore appearance and extend service life.
What we fix
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Crushed/matted traffic lanes and “rows” after heavy use or furniture
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Bleach spots (cleaners, acne meds, pet treatments) and small color losses
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Visible seams/side-match lines that need softening to the eye
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Subtle shade transitions after patching or panel replacement
Services
1) Pile Lifting & Texture Restoration
Gently re-stands and re-textures carpet fibers to remove visible lanes and “crunch.”
Methods: professional pile lifter, controlled steam, corrective rinse, grooming blocks, accelerated drying.
Best for: nylon & wool broadloom/tiles; roll crush, chair-paths, under-furniture dents.
Notes: permanent fiber distortion (melt/abrasion) won’t “unbreak,” but appearance typically improves markedly.
2) Spot Dyeing & Color Correction
Recolors small to medium areas of color loss, often from oxidizers/bleach.
Process: fiber ID → colorfastness test → custom dye formula → controlled heat set.
Works on: nylon & wool (most), some blends.
Doesn’t work on: solution-dyed fibers (e.g., many SDN/SDO), olefin/polypropylene, polyester (usually unreceptive).
Reality check: dyeing can darken to match; it cannot lighten. Severe UV fade or multi-hue patterns may require tone-on-tone blending rather than exact invisibility.
3) Feather Blending (Micro-Toning)
Softens hard visual edges—at seams, patches, panel side-match, or spot repairs—by applying ultra-dilute tints beyond the repair boundary.
Goal: make your eye stop “catching” on a line; create a natural gradient so the repair disappears at a glance.
How we work (quick + careful)
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Assess & test: fiber type, dye class, pH/residue check, micro color swatch.
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Plan & proof: set expectations, show a small blend test where appropriate.
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Treat & protect: perform the correction, heat-set when needed, groom, and dry.
Expectations & limitations (straight talk)
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Not all fibers take dye. Nylon/wool usually do; solution-dyed, olefin, and most polyester do not.
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Bleach damage removes color—repairs require going slightly darker to blend.
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Physical damage (melted tips, abrasion, missing tufts, delamination) is cosmetic at best; may need patching.
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Patterned rugs/carpets: we prioritize visual distance blending; pixel-perfect reweave is a different craft.
After-care
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Avoid oxidizers/bleach and high-pH cleaners on corrected areas.
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Use CRI-approved products; blot spills, don’t rub.
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Professional cleaning remains safe after full cure (we’ll advise timing).
Great for
Homes • Boutique hotels • Offices • HOAs • Property managers • Showrooms
Want an honest read on what’s fixable and what isn’t? That’s our thing.
Call/text to book an assessment or send clear photos for a quick viability check.
Stone Tile

Stone & Stone Tile Inspection (Marble, Travertine, Limestone, Granite, Quartzite & Slate)
Natural stone is gorgeous—but it’s unforgiving when installation, moisture, or maintenance go sideways. We perform forensic inspections of stone and stone tile that separate cosmetic oddities from true failures, then give you clear next steps that contractors and builders can act on.
What we evaluate (standards-based, non-invasive)
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Substrate & structure
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Deflection and support (stone tile often needs stiffer assemblies than ceramic; think double-layer plywood or reinforced slabs).
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Mortar selection/coverage (large-format/medium-bed mortars, back-buttering, mesh/resin-backed stone considerations).
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Movement & joints
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Required soft joints at all changes of plane and perimeters (per industry guidelines like EJ recommendations). Missing joints → cracking, tenting, and broken corners.
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Moisture & vapor drive
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Source, path, and symptoms: darkening, efflorescence, spalling, salt attack, “picture-framing,” hollow sounds, recurring grout discoloration, shower damp corners, curb leaks.
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Surface condition
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Etching (acid damage) vs staining (oil/dye/metal), micro-pitting, orange-peel resin issues, factory polish variability, lippage (high edges), scratched/trafficked lanes.
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Slope & wet areas
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Pan/bench/sill slopes, weep protection, curb detailing, steam-unit vapor management.
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Exterior & threshold transitions
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Freeze–thaw exposure, de-icing salts, UV, and drainage details.
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Tools we bring
Moisture meters (pin & pinless), infrared thermography, hygrometers, digital levels for slope, feeler gauges for lippage, gloss meter for polish (GU), UV inspection, and borescope access where available.
Common red flags (call us if you see these)
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White haze or fluffy salts (efflorescence) that returns after cleaning
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Tiles that sound hollow or “drummy,” recurring cracked grout/caulk lines
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Darkened stone around showers/curbs that never fully dries
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Dull rings or splash marks on marble/limestone (etches), or scratched traffic lanes
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High edges you can feel with your shoe, chipped corners, loose thresholds
What you receive
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A photo-rich, plain-English report mapping findings to recognized tile/stone standards
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Root-cause analysis (installation vs. materials vs. maintenance/environment)
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Prioritized remedies: from cleaning/poulticing and re-polishing to lippage removal, re-grouting/soft joints, targeted re-set, or full rebuild when required
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Builder/insurer-ready documentation
Restoration guidance we can specify
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Honing & polishing (gloss targets) to remove etches/scratches and restore clarity
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Poultice protocols for rust, oil, dye, and mineral stains
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Efflorescence mitigation (dry-out strategy, vapor management, safe removal)
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Lippage removal/stone flattening and re-finish where feasible
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Correct movement joint placement and replacement of rigid grout at changes of plane
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Shower remediation plans (weep protection, slope correction, membrane strategy)
FAQs
Is this marble stain or etch?
Etches are chemical dulls (no color) from acids; stains add color. We confirm and outline the proper fix—polish vs. poultice.
Can you certify hidden waterproofing?
Post-tile, many elements are concealed. We document evidence non-invasively and, if needed, outline minimal-demo verification and flood/dye tests with your contractor.
Will sealing fix moisture darkening?
Sealers don’t stop vapor drive and can worsen dry times. We address source first, then specify the correct sealer if appropriate.
Have stone that’s cracking, dulling, or always “looks wet”? Send a few photos (overall, close-ups, corners/curbs) and we’ll advise the right level of inspection—so you get real answers and a clean path to restoration.
Tile Showers

Tile Shower Inspection (Residential & Multi-Family)
When a shower fails, it doesn’t just crack grout—it can soak studs, swell baseboards, stain ceilings below, and nuke resale value. We specialize in forensic tile shower inspections that separate cosmetic quirks from true waterproofing and installation failures—and give you a clear plan to fix them.
What we look for (non-invasive, standards-based)
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Waterproofing & vapor management
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Proper pan/liner or surface-applied membrane, pre-slope, curb height & slope, continuous coverage at benches, niches, and windows.
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Drain type, weep hole protection, and signs of clogged weeps.
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For steam units: membrane continuity and ceiling slope per best practices.
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Movement joints (soft joints)
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Required flexible joints at all changes of plane (wall/wall, wall/floor, curb/wall, bench seams) per industry guidelines (TCNA/ANSI). Missing soft joints → cracking/“tenting.”
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Slope to drain
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Floor slope (target ~¼" per foot), bench/sill/niche slopes, and areas that pond water.
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Substrate & structure
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Appropriate backer (no drywall in wet zones), fastener placement (no penetrations through liners at or below curb top), seam treatment, and moisture/vapor strategy (one system—not doubled up).
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Tilework & finish
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Lippage (high edges), grout joint uniformity, recurring cracked grout/caulk, hollow or debonding sounds, loose or fractured tiles.
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Adjacent damage
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Moisture at walls, curb exteriors, and floor outside the shower; staining/efflorescence; musty odors.
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Tools we use
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Professional moisture meters (pin & pinless), infrared thermography, hygrometer/RH logging
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Digital level for slope, feeler gauges for lippage, inspection camera/borescope (where access exists)
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Dyes/UV where helpful to trace leaks (non-staining)
Typical red flags (call us if you see these)
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Hairline grout cracks that return after re-caulking
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Darkening grout or stone, persistent damp corners, or musty smell
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Water on bathroom floor after showers; swollen baseboard outside the curb
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Cracked tiles in a line (often a sign of movement or tenting)
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Ceiling stains below the shower or fresh efflorescence
What you get
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A photo-rich, plain-English report mapping conditions to recognized tile standards (TCNA/ANSI)
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Root-cause analysis (installation vs. materials vs. maintenance)
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Prioritized repair options (least invasive first), plus language your contractor or builder can act on
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If needed, recommendations for flood/dye testing coordination with your contractor or plumber
FAQs
Do you open walls or flood test?
Our inspection is non-invasive. If destructive verification or flood testing is warranted, we’ll outline the protocol and coordinate with your contractor or plumber.
Can you “certify” a shower after tile is up?
We can evaluate evidence of correct methods and current performance, but many waterproofing defects are hidden once tiled. We’ll tell you what can (and can’t) be proven post-install—and how to proceed.
Is this about warranty or insurance?
We document facts in an unbiased way. Our reports are frequently used by homeowners, builders, property managers, and insurers to resolve responsibility and choose the right fix.
Want expert eyes on a suspect shower? Send a few photos (overall, corners, curb, drain, and any cracks) and we’ll tell you what level of inspection makes sense—and whether it looks like a quick tune-up or a deeper waterproofing issue.
Installation Education

Installation Education & Pro Training
Get fewer call-backs, faster installs, and happier clients. Our Installation Education program turns standards into field-ready habits across rigid core/LVP, laminate, hardwood, carpet, tile, and stone. We teach the why behind each spec, then show the how on real projects in Las Vegas and surrounding markets.
Who it’s for
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Builders & superintendents
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Retailers & install managers
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GC/Trade partners (flooring, tile/stone, finish carpentry)
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Property managers & warranty teams
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Designers/specifiers who want to write buildable scopes
Outcomes you can expect
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Fewer failures: correct moisture, flatness, and movement practices
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Warranty alignment: installs that meet manufacturer + industry requirements
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Speed with confidence: repeatable checklists for pre-install, day-of, and closeout
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Cleaner handoffs: photo evidence and moisture logs that stand up to scrutiny
What we teach (by discipline)
Rigid Core / LVP / SPC & Laminate
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Subfloor readiness: ASTM F710 surface prep; flatness (1/8" in 6' or 3/16" in 10')
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Moisture: ASTM F2170 (in-situ RH), F1869 (CaCl) — when & how; 6-mil poly vs mitigation
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Movement: perimeter and fixed-object clearances, door saddles, cabinets, T-molds
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Large fields & heat/sun: breaks, glazing exposure, rolling loads
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Locking systems: end-joint offsets, rack patterns, avoiding stress lines
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Field fixes that don’t void warranties (what’s allowed, what isn’t)
Engineered & Solid Wood
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Acclimation vs conditioning; EMC, RH/temperature control (NWFA)
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Adhesive selection, trowel notch, spread rates; slab testing & pH
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Fastener schedules and substrate stiffness; radiant heat limits
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Seasonal movement planning, expansion spaces, and transitions
Carpet (Broadloom & Tile)
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Power-stretching fundamentals (CRI 105), seam sealer use, pattern match
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Seam placement, peaking control, cushion selection, stairs best practices
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Carpet tile layout, orientation marks, and pattern registration
Tile & Stone
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Lippage control: warpage allowances, grout-joint width, medium-bed mortars
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Movement joints at perimeters and changes of plane (EJ principles)
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Coverage targets (95% wet areas), back-butter techniques, large-format support
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Shower assemblies: slope, waterproofing continuity, weeps, benches, curbs
Standards we cover
ASTM F710, F2170, F1869, F2659 • ANSI A108/A118/A136 • TCNA guidelines • NWFA • CRI 104/105 • RFCI • ACI 302.2R.
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Ready to upskill your teams and stop preventable failures?
Book an on-site session or request a custom curriculum tailored to your products and scopes.
Epoxy Flooring

Epoxy Flooring — Inspection, Spec, & QA
Resinous floors can be amazing—chemical-resistant, seamless, and easy to clean—but only when the prep, moisture control, and system selection are right. We help owners, GCs, and facility teams avoid costly do-overs by getting those pieces dialed in.
When to call us
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Blisters, bubbles, fisheyes, or pinholes appear after cure
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Peeling/delamination at wheel paths, under mats, or near doors
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Hot-tire pickup in garages, forklift scuffing in warehouses
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Yellowing/chalking under UV, or slippery when wet
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You’re planning a new epoxy/polyaspartic/urethane system and want it done right
What we do
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Substrate readiness audits: moisture, pH, flatness, contamination checks
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Profile verification: ICRI CSP measurement & documentation
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System matching: epoxy vs. polyaspartic vs. urethane cement for your use case
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Failure forensics: isolate moisture, prep, mix ratio, or application errors
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Owner’s QA program: day-1 to closeout—checklists, photos, and test logs
How we test & document
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Moisture: ASTM F2170 (in-situ RH), ASTM F1869 (MVER), surface RH mapping
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pH & contamination: alkalinity, oil/silicone detection, water-drop tests
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Surface profile: ICRI CSP chips/comparators; adhesion risk from over/under-profile
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Adhesion: ASTM D4541 pull-off; ASTM D3359 cross-hatch where appropriate
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Film build: wet-film/dry-film checks; cure & recoat windows verification
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Thermal/UV: identify topcoats for UV stability and thermal shock exposure
Common failures we resolve
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Osmotic blistering from moisture drive (no vapor mitigation)
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Outgassing pinholes from unfilled concrete porosity or late-day backrolls
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Peeling at joints/doors from poor key-cutting or restrained edges
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Hot-tire pickup from under-cured/topcoats or incompatible chemistry
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Slippery surfaces—spec the right texture additive and test COF
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Yellowing—recommend aliphatic topcoats where needed
Right system, right space
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Garages/shops: 100% solids epoxy body + polyaspartic/urethane topcoat
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Commercial kitchens/food & bev: urethane cement for thermal shock
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Warehouses: high-build epoxy with silica broadcast for traction & wear
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Healthcare/clean rooms: seamless cove, chemical-resistant topcoats
Standards we work to
ICRI (CSP), ASTM F710, F2170, F1869, D4541, D3359, and manufacturer specifications; moisture mitigation compliant with ASTM F3010 when required.
Deliverables you receive
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Clear root-cause report with photos & test data
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Corrective action plan (surface prep, mitigation, system stack, recoat windows)
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Pre-install checklist & daily QC log templates for your crew or installer
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Maintenance guidance to protect the warranty
Planning a new resin floor or troubleshooting one that failed?
Let’s make sure the prep, moisture, and chemistry align—so your floor performs the way it should.

