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 should be used with concrete subfloors. Moisture vapor emissions should not
exceed 3 lbs./24 hour per 1,000 sq. when tested with the Anhydrous Calcium Chloride Test in accordance with
ASTM F 1869 or 75% 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 should 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 should 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.
Recommended Areas:
This flooring is suitable for installation in most areas of your home, including basements. This floor may not be
suitable for vacations homes or homes where the temperature is not controlled year-round. Care should be
taken not to expose the flooring to standing water or liquids for extended periods of time, as it may damage the
floor.
Existing Flooring:
Our Wellmade WREW 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 WREW 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 not encased with self-leveling underlayment are not
recommended.