Installation Guide

Concrete Subfloors:
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 ASTM 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 which is not covered by our Warranty.
Wood Subfloors:
Planks can be installed over a smooth, flat, level wood subfloor, underlayment grade plywood, lauan plywood and
other underlayments 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. Our warranties DO NOT
cover any problems caused by inadequate substructures or improper installation of substructures.
Existing Flooring:
Wellmade Engineered Vinyl 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. Carpet, heavily cushioned vinyl floors or vinyl floors consisting of multiple layers are NOT a suitable
subfloor for installation.
Radiant Heat Subfloors:
Wellmade Engineered Vinyl planks can be installed over in-floor radiant heating systems provided the subfloor
surface does not exceed 85°F (29.44°C) at any point. The initial floor temperature should not exceed 70°F
(21.11°C) for 24 hours prior, during, and 48 hours after installation. Thereafter the temperature should be
gradually increased to the desired setting up to 85°F (29.44°C). Because heat does affect both plastic and wood,
you may need additional room for expansion (larger expansion gap) and contraction (wider base to allow for
contraction) Radiant heating systems that are installed on top of the subfloor surface and covered with self -
leveling underlayment are not recommended.