Installation & Assembly

Concrete Subfloors:
SPC Planks can be installed over concrete on all grade levels if a proper moisture barrier is used. A
minimum 6 mil polyethylene moisture barrier must be used with concrete subfloors. Moisture
vapor emissions should not exceed 5 lbs./24 hour per 1,000 sq. when tested with the Anhydrous
Calcium Chloride Test in accordance with ASTM F 1869 or 80% RH in accordance with STM F 2170
“Standard Test Method for Determining Relative Humidity in Concrete Slabs using in situ Probes.
Any uneven areas greater than 3/16 inch (4.76mm) in a 10 foot (3.05m) radius should be leveled
with a Portland cement based patching compound. Holes and cracks in the cement should be
patched, and expansion joints should be filled with a latex patching compound. Newly poured
concrete floors must cure for a minimum of 90 days. Please note it is the person installing the
floor and/or the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure any moisture or alkalinity issues are
resolved prior to installing the floor.
NOTE: Excessive moisture may cause the growth of unhealthy mold or mildew and/or cause
staining of the flooring
Wood Subfloors:
Planks can be installed over a smooth, flat, level wood subfloor, underlayment grade plywood,
lauan plywood and other underlayment recommended by the manufacturer for use with a
floating plank floor. Subfloor should be flat within 3/16 inch (4.76mm) in a 10 foot (3.05m) radius.
Wood subfloors must be suspended at least 18" above the ground. Adequate cross-ventilation
must be provided, and the ground surface of the crawl space should be covered with a suitable
vapor barrier. If installing over a crawl space, a minimum 6 mil polyethylene moisture barrier must
be used.
NOTE: Avoid subfloors with excessive vertical movement or deflection because subfloor
movement may cause the locking mechanism to wear down, or even break. Indications of
excessive deflection are subfloor fastener release, squeaking, compromised or sectional
contours such as bowing or dipping in floors and uneven flooring material. Nail or screw
subfloor panels to secure boards with excessive vertical movement or deflection prior to
installation of the flooring material.
Existing Flooring:
SPC planks can be installed over a variety of finished floors including single layer resilient sheet flooring/ tile,
ceramic, marble and terrazzo. The surface must be in good condition and show no signs of excessive moisture
conditions. Grout joints and heavy embossing in tile or vinyl must be leveled so they are flush with the
flooring surface. Additionally the tile may require several skim coats to achieve a flat surface. SPC Floor,
Carpet, heavily cushioned vinyl floors or vinyl floors consisting of multiple layers are NOT a suitable subfloor
for installation.