Installation Instructions

CONCRETE SUBFLOOR MOISTURE TESTING PROCEDURE:
If you are unsure whether moisture (hydrostatic pressure) is a problem, cut a few
2 sq. ft. squares of polyethylene film and duct tape them to several areas of the
concrete subfloor. Wait about 72 hours and then lift up the corner of each test square.
If the plastic is dry, then moisture is within the acceptable levels. If there is
condensation on the underside of the plastic, or if the floor beneath is damp, then the
moisture level may not be acceptable.
ACCLIMATION:
Store the tiles flat (not on ends or sides) in the same room where they will be installed
for at least 24 hours prior to installation. Make sure the room temperature is between
65 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 48 hours prior to installation, during
installation and for the life of the floor.
PREPARING THE SUBFLOOR
CONCRETE FLOORS:
Concrete must be clean and free of moisture. Remove all dirt, grease, paint or old tile
adhesive. Do not damp mop as moisture will stay in concrete for many weeks. Sweep
and vacuum floor thoroughly. Fill all cracks and holes with a suitable Portland based
latex crack filler per manufacturer’s instructions. Apply latex floor primer (per
manufacturer’s instructions). Never install self-stick vinyl tiles over unsealed concrete
regardless of grade level. Failure to use latex floor primer over unsealed concrete
voids your warranty.
WOOD FLOORS:
Wood floors must be clean and free of dirt, dust, varnish, paint, grease and
waxes. Screw down any loose boards in preparation for plywood
underlayment. Cover subfloor with flooring grade minimum ¼” thick plywood sanded
on one side. Countersink staple or nail heads and fill holes and joints with Portland
based latex crack filler. Sweep and vacuum the floor thoroughly, then apply latex floor
preparation per manufacturer’s instructions.
OLD FLOOR COVERINGS:
Tiles may be installed directly over any well-bonded, smooth surface resilient floors
after removing all wax or any other coatings. Planks should not be installed over
cushioned floor materials. Planks should not be installed over heavily embossed tiles
unless the embossing has been filled in with a suitable Portland based leveler.
WARNING:
NEVER SAND EXISTING RESILIENT FLOOR, AS THE
DUST MAY CONTAIN HARMFUL ASBESTOS FIBERS.