Installation Instructions

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9.4 Testing for Alkalinity - Testing the pH at the surface of a concrete slab must be
conducted in accordance with the latest edition of ASTM F 710 “Standard Practice
for Preparing Concrete Floors to Receive Resilient Flooring”.
Note: Preparing the surface of a concrete slab for pH testing can be problematical. Make sure
the concrete surface is adequately cleaned of adhesives, curing compounds etc. When pH
readings are less than 8.5, it may be an indication of a residue remaining on the concrete
surface. Also use care not to over clean the surface of the concrete, consequently removing
the (usually) thin layer of carbonation. This can result in pH readings >12.
Caution: The results obtained from testing reflect only the condition of the concrete floor at the
time of testing. Further, it is highly recommended that the test site or building be at the same
temperature and humidity expected during normal use. These conditions are required to be
maintained 48 hrs prior to, and during testing. The installation of a permanent, effective
moisture vapor retarder with a minimum thickness of 0.010 inch and a permanency of 0.1
perms, as described in ASTM Specification E 1745, is required under all on-grade or below-
grade concrete floors.
10. Relaxing/Conditioning Carpet – To minimize wrinkling and buckling and to
facilitate installation, it is highly recommended that carpet be unrolled and allowed to
relax in the installation area for a time period that conforms to the requirements of
the manufacturer of the product being installed. (See Section 7.2 Ambient
Conditions) This time period will vary up to 72 hours, but should not be less that 24
hours at a temperature between 65-95ºF (18 -35ºC). Protect carpet adequately from
soil, dust, moisture and other contaminants. Sundry items, such as adhesives, should be
conditioned as well.
If these conditions are not attainable, contact flooring manufacturer
for applications to warranty.
Note: The allocation of time for the relaxation period should be included in the planning of the
job by all interested parties.
11. Ventilation - During installation, maintain air circulation by operating the HVAC
system at full capacity.
Note: For acceptable indoor air quality, fresh air ventilation in commercial spaces is
recommended to conform to current guidelines specified in ASHRAE Standard 62 published by
the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers
(www.ashrae.org
). Failure to comply could cause negative ramifications to the installation and
the indoor air quality.
12. Carpet Seam Edge Preparation
Properly prepare all edges that are used for seams in strict compliance with
carpet manufacturer recommendations.
12.1 Trimming – Trim carpet edges at seams using tools and techniques best suited
for the carpet style (e.g., loop-pile, cut-pile, cut-and-loop pile, woven carpet) in
accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Trim edges far enough into the
material to maintain the structural integrity of the carpet and to maintain pattern
design where applicable.