Glue Down Installation

Glue down installation procedures for 3/8", 3-ply and 5-ply floors

Step 1: Marking your Starting Line

We recommend you install your flooring parallel to the longest outside (exterior) wall in the room.

Measure out 2 1/2" for 2 1/4" products or 3 1/4" for 3" products. Snap a straight chalk line.

Do not work on top of the newly installed flooring. In some circumstances it may be necessary to work on top of the newly installed flooring, those instances make sure to use a kneeler board to support your weight evenly.

Step 2: Spread the Adhesive

The adhesive should not be applied if subfloor or room temperature is below 60° F, (16° C).

Spread sufficient amounts of adhesive with a the recommended trowel. Working time for adhesive depends on the manufacturer. Read instructions fully.

Hold trowel at a 45° angle. The trowel will leave ridges of adhesive and will leave very little adhesive between the ridges. If adhesive dries quickly, remove and spread new adhesive to achieve proper bonding to the subfloor. OPEN TIME MAY VARY DUE TO INDIVIDUAL CLIMATE CONDITIONS.

During the installation, occasionally remove a flooring unit (piece) for the subfloor and inspect the back for proper adhesive transfer. Transfer of at least 50% is necessary to ensure sufficient holding strength.

When using adhesives, you must follow instructions on adhesive label. Flash times, trowel size, spread rates and rolling requirements will be different.

Step 3: Installation of Flooring

Always refer to the specific instructions on the adhesive label. Flash time/set up times may vary with low solvent adhesives.

Ensure the correct set up time is utilized prior to installing the planks.

Do not slide the planks through the adhesive when placing them in position. Simply place the long tongue into the adjoining long groove as close as possible to the short adjoining end and adjust into final position. Planks should be butted tightly to adjoining plank.

A random mixing of the various surface graining configuration is suggested to enhance the natural beauty of this floor. Floor should be installed from several cartons at the same time to ensure a good color and shade mix.

The first row of planks should be installed with the edge of the groove lined up on the chalk line. The tongue should be facing the starting wall. The first row must be aligned and seated in the adhesive as all additional rows will be pulled back to this original row.

On additional rows it may be necessary to align planks with a cut-off piece of scrap as shown. A soft rubber mallet can be used to tap the planks on the edge until they are pulled into proper position.

Check for a tight fit between all edges and ends of each plank. End joints of adjacent rows should be staggered a minimum of 6 inches.

If you are installing over wood type subfloor, use small finishing nails to hold the first row in place, set and fill the nail holes with latex filler, which is manufactured to blend with your flooring.

Complete the installation using the same procedures. Be sure not to spread the adhesive too far ahead of your work area. It is not recommended to work on the newly installed flooring. If it is absolutely necessary to work on the newly installed flooring, then use a kneeler board. The kneeler board will distribute your weight evenly over a wide area.

To eliminate minor shifting or gapping of product during installation, the recommended tape to use is 3M 2090 Blue Mask Tape to hold the planks together during installation.

As you are installing the floor, clean the adhesive residue off the floor with soap and water and a clean cloth. If the adhesive should set up on the flooring, then use mineral spirits on a damp cloth.

Avoid heavy foot traffic on the flooring for at least 24 hours. Move the furniture back into the room after 24 hours. Do not cover the floor for 7 days after installation, to ensure proper cure of the adhesive.

It is no longer necessary to roll the floor with a 150 lb. roller. Do not roll the floor. If end or side lifting takes place, then we recommend adding weight to the raised areas until the adhesive gains sufficient bond. This condition may be found in doorways or around the perimeter of the room where molding is to be installed.

* Always follow manufactures directions