Requirements for Installing SPC Click-Lock Flooring

Subfloor Types

SPC click-lock flooring can be installed over various types of subfloors, including:

1. Concrete
2. Plywood
3. OSB (Oriented Strand Board)
4. Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
5. Existing Vinyl Flooring

Subfloor Conditions

To achieve optimal results, the subfloor must be:

1. Clean: The subfloor should be free from dust, dirt, debris, grease, oil, and any other contaminants that might interfere with the adhesive or underlayment.
2. Dry: Moisture is a major concern for SPC flooring. The subfloor must be dry, with a moisture content of less than 5% for concrete subfloors and less than 12% for wooden subfloors.
3. Level: The subfloor should be level within 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span. Any high spots should be sanded down, and low spots filled with a suitable leveling compound.
4. Smooth: The subfloor should be smooth, with no bumps, holes, or protrusions that could affect the installation. Sanding or patching may be necessary to achieve a smooth surface.
5. Stable: The subfloor must be structurally sound, with no signs of movement, deflection, or instability.

Preparing Different Subfloors

Concrete Subfloors

1. Moisture Testing: Conduct a moisture test to ensure the concrete is dry. Use a moisture meter or perform a calcium chloride test.
2. Repair Cracks: Fill any cracks or holes with a suitable concrete patching compound and allow it to cure completely.
3. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove any dust, grease, or contaminants.

Plywood and OSB Subfloors

1. Moisture Testing: Check the moisture content of the wood subfloor using a moisture meter.
2. Secure Loose Boards: Ensure all boards are securely fastened to prevent movement.
3. Sanding: Sand down any high spots and fill low areas with a suitable leveling compound.

Tile Subfloors

1. Check for Stability: Ensure all tiles are securely adhered and not loose or cracked.
2. Clean Surface: Clean the tiles thoroughly to remove any grease or contaminants.
3. Fill Grout Lines: Fill in grout lines with a suitable leveling compound to create a smooth surface.

Existing Vinyl Flooring

1. Check for Damage: Inspect the existing vinyl for any damage or loose areas. Secure any loose sections.
2. Clean Surface: Clean the vinyl thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants.
3. Smooth Surface: Ensure the vinyl surface is smooth, filling any low areas if necessary.

Underlayment

While SPC flooring often has an attached underlayment, in some cases, an additional underlayment may be required for extra cushioning, sound reduction, or moisture barrier. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine if an additional underlayment is necessary.

Installation Environment

1. Temperature and Humidity: The installation area should have a stable temperature between 18°C and 29°C (65°F and 85°F) and a relative humidity level between 30% and 60% for at least 48 hours before, during, and after installation.
2. Acclimatization: Allow the SPC flooring to acclimatize in the installation area for at least 48 hours before starting the installation.

Conclusion

Preparing the subfloor properly is crucial for a successful SPC click-lock flooring installation. Ensuring the subfloor is clean, dry, level, smooth, and stable will help achieve a professional finish and long-lasting performance. Following these guidelines and the manufacturer’s recommendations will ensure that your SPC flooring installation is both beautiful and durable.