Installation & Assembly

5. Start the second row using 1/3rd of a plank. Place the cut end against the wall. Insert the tongue on
the long side of the plank into the groove of the plank in the first row. Hold the plank in a 20° to 30°
angle while applying pressure inward and down until they lock together. To complete the second
and all successive rows, it will be necessary to lock the short end into the previous plank first before
locking the long side of the plank. Angle the plank and push the tongue into the groove and adjust
it until the tongue locks into place. It may be necessary to lift both planks slightly to lock the joint
together. Complete the second row allowing 1/4 inch (6.35mm) expansion space at the start and
end of the row.
6. Start the third row using a 2/3rd length of a plank with the cut end against the wall. Complete each
row thereafter using a random layout with end joints off-set by at least 8”. Plan the layout to avoid
using small planks (less than 6”) at the walls. The cut piece at the end of the row can often be used
to start the next row provided it achieves a random layout. Always place the cut end against the wall
and allow for the expansion space.
7. SPC planks are unique in that they can also be installed with a pull bar or tapping block and rubber
mallet or hammer in difficult areas, such as the last row, and when fitting under door trim. Use a pull
bar and rubber mallet or hammer to lock the joints together in the last row. Always use a pull bar on
the cut edge of the plank. Factory edges can be damaged if the pull bar is used directly against
them.
8. When fitting around door trim it will be necessary to slide the plank under the trim. This can be
accomplished easily by starting the row on the side of the room with the door trim and then sliding
the plank into place once it is attached. The row can be completed by inserting the tongue into the
groove or the groove into the tongue depending on the direction. A tapping block and pull bar
(Diagrams 2a & 2b) can also be used to lock the joints together while the planks are in a
flat position. Use a series of light taps until the joint is gradually locked together.
Diagram 2a Diagram 2b
9. Bathrooms: When SPC planks are installed in a bathroom the flooring can be laid under
the toilet only if the floor is separated from adjacent rooms with a doorway threshold,
and padding is not used. Otherwise the flooring should be installed around the toilet
leaving a 1/8 inch (3.175mm) expansion space. Use 100% silicone caulking to fill the
expansion space at the tub, shower and all wet areas to help prevent surface water
seepage under the floor.