5 Questions to Ask Vinyl Flooring Suppliers Before Installation

A Guide to Finding the Right Flooring Supplier

Choosing the right flooring supplier based on available color and design options is one thing. Selecting the right flooring system based off ease of installation is another. When working with floor suppliers, especially ones who deal with vinyl flooring, it’s best to find one that understands the importance of accessibility of the install and whether the system chosen is right for the space altogether.

Vinyl floor suppliers should be able to provide installers with the right information to help them determine the best conditions and process for installing a particular flooring product. Getting accurate information about the install process, subflooring, repair, and maintenance are a great way to choose the right flooring and will help you find the most knowledgeable flooring supplier. Here are five tips to help you get started in your search for new flooring.

1. What type of adhesive is required for my flooring application?

The use of a solvent-free, pressure-sensitive or hard setting acrylic adhesive is preferred when installing any vinyl plank, tile or sheet flooring over a porous or non-porous base, like concrete or plywood. The adhesive should be nonflammable, water and alkali resistant and freeze-thaw stable. It is always important to consult the flooring supplier’s technical manual to ensure proper installation of the vinyl flooring.

2. What kind of flooring preparations do I need to make for my particular application (subfloor)?

All subfloors should be clean, dry and free of dust, dirt, wax, paint, grease, and all other extraneous materials that might interfere with the adhesive bond. Cracks and uneven surfaces must be filled with approved cement-based patching compound. And don’t forget, moisture testing is essential for all concrete subfloors regardless of grade level or whether the concrete is freshly poured or is classified as an older slab.

Here’s a specific set of directions we at Parterre recommend following carefully:

• Flooring materials and adhesive should be acclimated to the installation area for a minimum of 24–48 hours prior to starting installation.
• The area to receive flooring should be fully enclosed, weather tight, with the permanent HVAC system set and maintained at a minimum temperature of 65ºF for a minimum of 48 hours prior to, during and after installation.

*These directions are standard among luxury vinyl flooring manufacturers, but be sure to consult with your supplier first.

3. What’s the best method for cleaning the floors once installed in my particular application?

Once the design and construction are completed, and the flooring is ready for use, it’s important to know how to maintain it. Depending on the intended use and application, cleaning methods will differ, but vinyl flooring can be cleaned simply by either dry sweeping or mopping using a two-bucket system.

A grocery store, for instance, will want an easy-to-clean floor because of the amount of people walking in throughout the day. This makes vinyl flooring ideal for a grocery store setting. While cleaning solutions can certainly still be used, it’s best to refer to a vinyl flooring supplier’s maintenance product guide to determine what will work best.

4. Do I need a professional installer?

You can’t go wrong with hiring a professional installer to do the job. As we noted earlier, the proper installation of your vinyl flooring is paramount. Also make sure your vinyl flooring supplier adequately backs their product up with a warranty, just in case something occurs during the installation process. A good supplier will give their consumers the proper information they need to know to get the job done right.

5. My application is not new construction and I have already administered a moisture test in the past. Do I need to do it again? 

Yes. Testing for the presence of moisture and alkali must be performed on all bases regardless of age or history of flooring material previously in place. This activity is often overlooked, ignored, trusted to fate, or otherwise not performed in a timely manner. Testing should be performed by an authorized testing service or properly trained entity, not necessarily the installation contractor.

As one of the premier vinyl flooring suppliers on the market today, Parterre’s stylish commercial flooring features unparalleled designs and industry-leading durability.

We have years of experience, but we don’t just put quality flooring or surface products in your hands and leave you hanging. We understand the value of providing insight and direction well after the purchase has been made and installation has begun. Contact us today to learn more about our luxury vinyl products.