Source: AXA XL

Gypsum Cement

Gypsum cement is an effective pourable underlayment available to contractors worldwide, commonly used in an  array of residential and commercial vertical building applications. Gypsum cement is often used as an alternative to  standard concrete, given its faster curing times, lighter weight, on-site mixing, and self-leveling properties.

Potential Concerns

• Lack of gypsum cement-specific product knowledge as it relates to a particular project application.
• Improper control of the environmental conditions to enhance curing, including air flow, ambient temperature and relative humidity management.
• Mixing accuracy and potential under/over watering of the pourable underlayment.
• Introducing a liquid matrix into direct contact with drywall and wood.
• Failure to properly monitor gypsum cement before proceeding with the next steps of construction.

Claims

• A hotel project in the southwest desert faced significant delays due to damages sustained to drywall and sub- flooring from a lack of proper environmental controls and failed heating, ventilation and air conditioning  (HVAC) management protocol.
• A multi-family residential project in the southeast experienced significant “wicking” of water into drywall, and  subsequent water damage and mold growth due to over-watered gypsum cement.
• Multi-family residential project in the northeast experienced mold growth on previously installed cabinets after flooring was poured causing project delays.

Action Items

• Control air flow, heat, humidity and other parameters that may impact underlayment curing.
• Mix pourable underlayment to correct ratios.
• Develop comprehensive water and mold mitigation plan.
• Hire an outside environmental firm to provide oversight and monitoring.
• Consider using a technology solution to monitor environmental conditions such as Eddy Solutions (Water Management), Pillar Tech (Environmental Monitoring), or WINT (Water Leak Detection).