Installation Guide

0446ES | 03/2021 | PAGE 2 OF 9
PERGO® IS MANUFACTURED AND DISTRIBUTED BY MOHAWK INDUSTRIES, INC.
MOHAWK TECHNICAL SERVICES - HARD SURFACE | 888.387.9881 OPTION 3 | [e-mail]
Rigid Core Vinyl Plank Installation Instructions
Defense+
™
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR INSTALLATION
Tape Measure
Gloves
Pull Bar
Reciprocating Saw (optional)
Utility Knife
Tapping Block
3/8" Spacers
Miter or Circular Saw (optional)
Eye Protection
Soft Faced Hammer
Level
Knee Pads (optional)
SITE PREPARATION
Prior to installation, the homeowner or installer must ensure that job site conditions (including subfloor/ substrate, ambient
temperature and relative humidity) will not negatively aect the floor. The manufacturer is not responsible for damages
associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
A. The surface of the subfloor must be flat. The flatness requirement is defined as follows: the maximum dierence between
two high points and the intermediate low point is 1/4" in a 10' radius. Surface flatness must also not vary more than 1/16"
when measured with a 3' straight edge. Additionally, the subfloor must not slope more than 1" in 6'.
B. High areas can be sanded, ground down or floated over with an approved self-leveling compound. Fill excessive voids or low
areas using a non-gypsum, cementitious-based leveling compound. Allow the leveling compound to dry thoroughly before
beginning the Pergo Defense+ Vinyl Plank installation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure it is appropriate for
the application.
C. Subfloors must be structurally sound without deflection.
D. Crawl Spaces: Concrete slab or ground must be dry. Ensure that crawl spaces have open vents year-round to ensure proper
air circulation and prevent moisture build-up. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil
polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18" (45.7cm) and the
perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.