Please read all installation instructions carefully before beginning installation. Improper installation will void warranty. It is recommended to have a professional perform the installation.

ATTENTION:

Warranty does not cover damages caused by mold, mildew, hydrostatic pressure, or excessive subfloor moisture. Additionally, issues arising from flooding, leaking plumbing or appliances, water intrusion through sliding doors, mold presence, and discoloration from mold or fungi are not covered under warranty. To ensure the longevity of the SPC flooring and avoid voiding the warranty, a moisture barrier must be laid underneath.

Note on Subfloors:

  1. A well-prepared subfloor is essential for successful installation. Ensure it is dry, flat, stable, clean, and free from debris, grease, and chemicals. While SPC flooring can hide minor imperfections, major ones may show through the planks, so it is crucial to address any necessary corrections beforehand.

  2. SPC flooring can be installed over existing floor coverings if they are firm, level, and stable. However, it is not recommended to install it over certain surfaces such as wood subfloors directly on concrete, dimensional lumber or plywood over concrete, carpet, needle felt, cushion vinyl, floating floors, damaged floors, pre-existing vinyl floors, or soft floors such as additional underlayment, as doing so will void the warranty.

  3. When installing SPC flooring over a wooden subfloor, ensure it is dry, structurally sound, clean, and level. Check for mold and insects. The wood's moisture content should not exceed 12%, and the crawl space must be well-ventilated (1.5 sq. ft. per 100 sq. ft., unless local codes differ). Level joints deeper than 1/8 inch and wider than 1/4 inch.

  4. When installing SPC flooring over a concrete subfloor, ensure the moisture content is below 85% relative humidity or 5 lbs. moisture vapor emission rate. High moisture vapor emissions, hydrostatic pressure, and alkalinity can damage the flooring. Conduct a calcium chloride and pH level test before installation and record the results. New concrete needs 60 days of curing. Level any unevenness exceeding 1/16 inch over 3 ft or 1/32 inch over 8 inches.

  5. SPC flooring can be installed over radiant heat if the room and floor temperature of 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit is maintained during acclimation, installation, and 48 hours afterward. The heating components should have at least 1/2 inch separation from the flooring. The radiant heat system must operate for 2 weeks before installation to reduce residual moisture. Maximum operating temperature must not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit (use of an in-floor thermostat is recommended). Turn off the heating at least 24 hours before installation. The temperature can be gradually increased in 5-degree increments after installation is complete. Use transition moldings to separate rooms with and without radiant heat or different temperature controllers.

Installing SPC Flooring Involves Several Steps:

1.Pre-installation Preparations:

  • Measure the room where you plan to install the SPC flooring and calculate the required amount of flooring material, including some extra for cutting and wastage.

  • Clean the subfloor thoroughly, removing any dirt, dust, or debris. Sweep or vacuum the floor to ensure it is completely clean.

  • Repair any uneven areas, cracks, or damage on the subfloor. Fill in low spots with a suitable leveling compound and sand down any high spots to create a smooth surface.

  • Ensure that the subfloor is dry and free from moisture. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture level. The acceptable moisture content may vary depending on the subfloor type. Please consult one of our specialists if you are unsure.

  • Make sure the job site has been cleaned and cleared of other trade apparatus that may damage the finished installation.

2.Acclimate the Flooring:

  • Open the boxes of SPC flooring in the room where it will be installed. Leave the flooring to acclimate for a minimum of 48 hours. The SPC flooring should be placed or stored flat, not upright.

  • Maintain the room temperature and humidity at the normal living conditions throughout the acclimation period. This allows the flooring to adjust to the environment and minimizes the risk of expansion or contraction after installation.

3.Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials:

  • SPC flooring planks

  • Measuring tape

  • Utility knife

  • Straightedge or T-square

  • Rubber mallet

  • Spacers

  • Pry bar

  • Transition moldings (as needed)

  • Safety goggles and knee pads (recommended)

4.Prepare the First Row:

  • Start the installation from the longest wall in the room. Remove the baseboards or moldings from the walls to provide space for expansion.

  • Measure the width of the room and divide it by the width of a full plank to determine the number of full planks needed for the first row.

  • If the remaining space after the last plank is less than half the width of a plank, cut the first row of planks accordingly to ensure a balanced and aesthetically pleasing layout.

5.Install the First Row:

  • Lay the first plank along the starting wall, with the groove side facing the wall. Place spacers between the plank and the wall to maintain an expansion gap (usually around 1/4 inch).

  • Connect the second plank to the first one by angling it and inserting the tongue into the groove. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the plank until it locks in place.

  • Continue adding planks along the first row using the same method. Cut the last plank as needed to fit the remaining space, ensuring an expansion gap on both ends.

6.Install Subsequent Rows:

  • For the second row and onwards, cut the first plank to a shorter length than the previous row to create a staggered joint pattern (usually around 6-8 inches) to create a visually appealing and stable installation. This helps to distribute the stress on the joints evenly.

  • Apply slight pressure to angle the plank and insert the tongue into the groove of the previous row. Use a rubber mallet to tap it gently until it locks in place.

  • Continue adding planks row by row, cutting the last plank of each row to fit as necessary.

7.Trim and Finish the Installation:

  • Measure and cut planks to fit around doorways, vents, or other obstacles using a utility knife or a jigsaw. Remember to leave expansion gaps (usually around 1/4 inch).

  • Reinstall the baseboards or install new moldings to cover the expansion gap and provide a finished look. Attach the baseboards or moldings to the wall, not the flooring.

  • Install transition moldings in doorways or between different flooring materials (such as carpet, tile, or hardwood), if needed.

8.Cleaning and Maintenance:

  • Once the installation is complete, remove any residue or marks from the flooring surface.

  • Use pH neutral, non-abrasive cleaners and gentle mops for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the longevity and appearance of your SPC flooring.