Can calcium sulfate raised flooring provide long-term stability in the humid southern climate, especially during the prolonged rainy season or in the perpetually damp environments of underground space
Publish Time: 2026-01-16
In the humid climate of southern China, particularly during the rainy season, building flooring systems often face severe challenges. Ordinary wooden floors are prone to moisture absorption, swelling, warping, and mold growth; composite boards may delaminate and fail due to moisture absorption of the adhesive layer; even traditional self-leveling cement floors are susceptible to dampness and sandblasting. However, calcium sulfate raised flooring, with its unique material composition and structural design, demonstrates superior adaptability and long-term stability in these high-humidity environments, making it an ideal flooring solution for data centers, laboratories, underground commercial spaces, and high-end offices.
Its moisture resistance stems primarily from the natural advantages of its core material. Although calcium sulfate (gypsum) is an inorganic mineral, after high-temperature calcination and high-density pressing, its internal pore structure is dense, resulting in extremely low water absorption. More importantly, the entire core material of the flooring is completely encased in a high-strength steel shell or moisture-proof aluminum foil, forming a physical barrier that effectively prevents external moisture from penetrating inward. Even in environments with consistently high humidity, moisture cannot directly contact the calcium sulfate core, thus avoiding risks such as expansion, softening, or strength reduction. This "inner stability and outer protection" structure ensures the flooring maintains dimensional stability even in humid environments, preventing bulging, deformation, or creaking due to moisture absorption.
Secondly, the raised structure itself is a smart design to address moisture. The flooring is not laid directly on the original ground but is suspended using an adjustable support system, forming a continuous raised layer at the bottom. This cavity not only provides flexible space for the installation of electrical, ventilation, and fire protection lines but, more importantly, promotes air circulation, effectively breaking the "closed, humid microenvironment." Even if there is slight water seepage or condensation in the original ground, the raised layer accelerates moisture evaporation and diffusion, preventing moisture accumulation from affecting the flooring itself. Meanwhile, this structure naturally avoids the problem of direct contact between traditional flooring and damp subfloors, fundamentally cutting off the path of moisture upwards.
Furthermore, the diverse range of surface finishes further enhances moisture resistance. Encased calcium sulfate flooring can be fitted with high-density HPL (high-pressure laminate), PVC rolls, anti-static laminates, or even carpet tiles, depending on the application. HPL and PVC themselves possess excellent waterproof and stain-resistant properties, and the joints are professionally treated to be virtually seamless, effectively preventing liquids from seeping into the seams. Even if water is accidentally spilled, it can be wiped away promptly without damaging the floor structure. This consistent protective system ensures a clean and dry user experience even in high-humidity environments.
It is worth mentioning that the inorganic nature of the material itself makes it resistant to mold growth. Unlike organic materials (such as wood and fiberboard), which are prone to mold growth and odor release in humid environments, calcium sulfate and the metal outer shell are both inorganic and lack the nutrient substrate required for microbial growth. Therefore, even under prolonged high humidity conditions, the floor will not mold, rot, or produce harmful volatile substances, ensuring indoor air quality and the health of users.
Ultimately, the stable performance of the encapsulated calcium sulphate raised floor in the rainy season of southern China or in underground spaces is not accidental, but the result of a deep integration of materials science, structural logic and engineering practice. It does not rely on chemical coatings to "temporarily conceal" moisture, but rather builds a long-term defense mechanism through physical isolation and air circulation. When humidity is pervasive and dampness becomes the norm, this seemingly ordinary floor, with its silent resilience, protects the dryness, flatness, and safety of the space above—allowing precision equipment to operate with peace of mind and people to walk with confidence. It draws a reliable line between dampness and dryness.
