Installation Guide

migrating to the flooring.. 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 85% 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” in a 10 foot 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” in a 10 foot 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.
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:
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:
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 plastic more than 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.