Installation Guide

accordance with ASTM F 2170 “Standard Test Method for Determining Relative Humidity in Concrete Slabs using in
situ Probes. Any uneven areas greater than 1/4" 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:
Hydri-Core flooring 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 1/4 inch 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. 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:
Hydri-Core flooring 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:
Hydri-Core flooring 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.
Important Notes:
Before removing any existing resilient flooring or tiles, please consult with a flooring professional to
determine if asbestos abatement is necessary to avoid exposure. See current edition of the Resilient
Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) publication “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient
Floor Coverings” for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covered structures.