Titebond 531 Concrete Moisture Control System

Titebond® 531 PLUS Concrete Moisture Control System solves the challenges of moisture transfer from concrete subfloors to wood and resilient flooring by reducing the transmission rate of moisture. The system consists of two pre-measured components that are mixed together to form a coating that is applied to the concrete surface. The easy-to-use formula will reduce the moisture vapor transmission rate from most concrete subfloors by 75%-90%. When used as directed with recommended wood flooring and resilient flooring adhesives, Titebond 531 PLUS is fully warranted. It dries fast and is tack-free in less than two hours under most conditions, allowing for same-day installation of flooring. The product has low odor and eliminates the need for bead blasting or other inconvenient measures. It has zero VOCs, meeting the most stringent national regulations. In addition, it helps reduce the potential for mold and mildew growth caused by subfloor moisture. Titebond 531 PLUS provides the professional installer with a cost-effective, convenient system designed to reduce concrete subfloor moisture transfer to wood and resilient flooring. Meets LEED - Green Building Standard 189, GBI - Green Globes Design Standard, NAHB/ICC National Green Building Std qualifications for Green building materials Fast cure, same day installation for wood and resilient flooring over concrete Zero VOCs - low odor One coat application for total protection No moisture limitation Revised February 2014

Product Features

• Cure time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at 70°F
• Allows for same-day installation of flooring material
• 10-year residential warranty; 5-year commercial warranty
• No slab testing required for wood installations
• No moisture limitation for wood installations
• Mold and mildew resistant
• VOC-compliant with all federal and state regulations as well as the SCAQMD

Physical Properties

Application Guidelines

Subfloor Preparation All substrates must be clean, dry, structurally sound, properly cured and free of dirt, oil, paint, old adhesive, wax, sealers and curing agents. General scouring with 20 grit or #3 1/2 open-coat sandpaper will remove most compounds. All loose materials must be vacuumed from the surface after scouring. For installation of wood flooring products (engineered, solids, bamboo and laminate and resilient floors), the subfloor must be flat to a tolerance of 3/16” in a 10’ radius. Hollow spots, popping spots and squeaks are related to unevenness in the subfloor. This product is for concrete subfloors only. Grinding of concrete floors is preferred over the use of filling compounds. If filling/flattening compounds are used, they must be Portland-based cementitious material and have a compressive strength equal to or greater than 3000 psi when cured. Use of Titebond 531 PLUS over light weight concrete and all gypsum-based materials requires the use of an approved concrete primer prior to application of 531 PLUS. Remove all existing base, shoe molding and door thresholds prior to continuing the installation. 

For the installation of resilient flooring products (vinyl, VCT, rubber tile, LVT, etc.), apply Titebond 531 PLUS. After it has cured, apply a ¼ inch thick layer of Portland-based cementitious material (with a compressive strength equal to or greater than 3000 psi when cured) to create a porous substrate. Follow cementitious materials manufacturer’s recommendations for application of 531 PLUS. 

Titebond 531 PLUS may be used on above-grade applications and on all substrates listed in this specification guide.

Mixing Directions DO NOT THIN. DO NOT HAND MIX. Begin mixing both components in the Part A pail using a power mixer (e.g. 1/2" drill and paint or plaster paddle). Mix thoroughly for three minutes. Once Titebond 531 PLUS is completely mixed, the working time is 30 minutes. The portions are pre-measured to assure optimal performance. DO NOT MODIFY OR ESTIMATE.

Application Directions Apply Titebond 531 PLUS directly to a clean and dry surface at a rate of 5 mils wet film thickness (320 sq. ft. per mixed gallon unit. Apply with a 3/8" nap roller immediately after mixing. Pour a "wet-line" approximately 3" wide the length of the room and spread with a roller. The product may be used from a pan also. Avoid excessive pressure on the roller so that an adequate amount of material will be spread. Excessive pressure will thin the material application. For best results, divide the area into 4 sections and use 1/4 of the mixed product in each section. Do not extend the coverage as this will result in a voided warranty. Working time is 30 minutes once completely mixed.

Application Conditions For best results, do not apply Titebond 531 PLUS when the temperature is below 65°F. Temperatures below 65°F and high humidity conditions may lead to increased curing time.

Curing Time Flooring may be installed over the Titebond 531 PLUS after the product is tack free or about 1.5 to 2 hours at 70°F. Lower temperatures and high humidity conditions may increase curing time. For questions, call Franklin Technical Service at 1.800.347.4583.

Cleanup Fresh coatings and tools can be cleaned with mineral spirits. Follow solvent manufacturer's directions when working with solvents and other flammable materials. Cured material is extremely difficult to remove.

Limitations

Moisture Content Limitations
There are no moisture content limitations or requirements for slab testing prior to installation for wood flooring installations when all terms of the warranty have been met. The moisture content limit for resilient installations is 12 lbs./1000 sq. ft./24 hours per a Calcium Chloride Test (ASTM F1869) or 85% relative humidity (RH) when tested with an in situ probe (ASTM F2170). Do not use Titebond 531 PLUS on concrete subfloors that exceed the 12 lb. (85% RH) limit for resilient installations. The concrete subfloor must be 30 days old. Refer to warranty at www.Titebond.com for complete details.

Required Adhesives

• For engineered wood flooring, use Titebond 811 Advantage, Titebond 821 Premium or Titebond 771-Step
• For bamboo and solid wood flooring, use Titebond 821 Premium or Titebond 771-Step
• For resilient flooring, use resilient manufacturer’s recommended adhesives or Titebond equivalent

Caution Statements

WARNING: EYE, SKIN IRRITANT AND RESPIRATORY IRRITANT. Prolonged or repeated skin exposure may cause skin irritation and sensitization or allergic reaction. Do not swallow or allow eye contact. Avoid breathing vapors. Use only with adequate ventilation. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment. First Aid: If skin contact occurs, wash affected area with soap and flowing water and seek medical attention. If adverse respiratory effects occur, remove individual to fresh air and seek medical attention. If eye contact occurs flush with water for 15 minutes, seek medical attention immediately. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting, seek medical attention. For additional information, refer to Material Safety Data Sheet.KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. FOR PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY.

Ordering Information

Download MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)