B03C - MATERIAL GUIDES - RESILIENT FLOORING

B03C-1 General comments
B03C-2 Preparation materials
B03C-3 Underlayments for resilient flooring
B03C-4 Adhesives
B03C-5 Resilient flooring - General
B03C-6 Resilient flooring Types
B03C-7 Resilient specialty flooring types
B03C-8 Resilient bases
B03C-9 Stair coverings
B03C-10 Accessories
B03C-11 Finishes
Preface:
This study guide covers resilient flooring and related installation materials. Specifiers and/or persons selecting such products should verify all facts relative to the particular project requirements.

To fully understand how to choose the most appropriate resilient floor covering for an institutional, commercial, or residential project, a thorough knowledge of the materials and installation requirements is essential. The following information will hopefully assist Designers, Suppliers, Installers, Owners, and others in becoming more aware of resilient floor covering issues and aid in choosing an appropriate resilient flooring material and installation method to suit a project's requirements.

1 • GENERAL COMMENTS

.01 Resilient floor coverings must meet Code requirements in regard to flame spread and smoke developed ratings with the ratings dependent on the type of occupancy. For                   information on flammability refer to Part A08A - Flammability Issues.

.02 In some instances resilient flooring must meet Code requirements in regard to slip resistance. For information on this refer to Part A08B - Slip Resistance Issues.

.03 For specific information on reference standards noted herein refer to Part B02B – Reference Standards.

.04 For recommended use of resilient flooring refer to Part B, Appendix BB2 - Usage Guide.

2 • PREPARATION MATERIALS

.01 Patching, Filling, and Levelling Compounds: Refer to Part A13 - Patching and Filling for information and requirements.

.02 Primers: Refer to Part A12 - Substrate Preparation for requirements of primers over patching and filling compounds.

  • Primers are no longer required for most installations. Consult with specific resilient flooring adhesive and material manufacturers to be used for applicability and requirements.

  • Primers are not designed to act as waterproofing agents, and should only be specified for a specific purpose or installation system.
3 • UNDERLAYMENTS FOR RESILIENT FLOORING

.01 Panel Type Underlayments: Refer to Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions for information and requirements. Refer also to ASTM F1482, Standard Guide to Wood Underlayment           Products Available for Use Under Resilient Flooring.

.02 Sheet Vinyl Underlay / Membrane: A moisture impervious vinyl sheet with a stabilizing and insulating fibreglass interlayer and a coated knobby vinyl grip surface on the                   underside. It is also resistant to certain types of contaminates.

  • General Uses: This type of vinyl underlay is recommended by certain floor covering manufacturers to overcome the problems occasionally encountered when intending to install vinyl or rubber sheet flooring over substrates slightly contaminated with oil, paint, old adhesive residue etc., or, over substrates where moisture emissions are known not to exceed 5.44 kg (12 lbs) per 92.9 m² (1000 ft²) in 24 hours.

  • Dimensions: 1.2 mm (.05") thick x 2000 mm (79") wide.

  • Caution: This type of underlay is not recommended under sheet vinyl / rubber flooring in areas subjected to heavy wheeled traffic, fork lifts, industrial pallet jacks in excess of 2000 pounds, or over wood sub-floors that are not adequately vented, or over wood blocks, or on or below grade concrete or over concrete slabs subjected to hydrostatic pressure.

  • Special Note: This system does not constitute a waterproof membrane. Confirm suitability with Floor Covering Contractor before specifying.
4 • ADHESIVES

.01 The type and application of adhesives shall be as recommended by both the material and adhesive manufacturer to suit the substrate type, the type of resilient flooring and the       type of application required.

.02 Refer to Part A14 - Adhesives and Fastenings for adhesive types.

.03 Caution Note: The design authority / specification writer is cautioned against specifying a particular type or manufacturer of adhesive as each resilient floor covering       manufacturer may have specific recommendations in regard to the type and usage of adhesives for their particular products and installations. The National Floor Covering               Association (NFCA) therefore recommends that the Design Authority specify adhesives "as recommended by the flooring material manufacturer to suit installation requirements".       The grade (standard or premium) and the type (based on VOC content) as well as use of water resistant or water proof types should however be specified.

.04 LEED Requirements: Where the flooring installation must conform to LEED requirements, the type of adhesives used throughout (i.e. for installation of underlayment panels,           flooring, bases, and accessories) shall be governed by those requirements.

5 • RESILIENT FLOORING - GENERAL

01 Resilient Flooring: This is a general term used to describe flooring materials that have the property to recover their original appearance and thickness after being subjected to          compressive forces (e.g. furniture) or crushing under traffic (foot or wheeled loads). This involves the inherent elastic energy in the material.

.02 Wear Layer: This is that portion of a resilient floor covering that contains or protects the pattern layer. Material used shall be stabilized against heat and light deterioration. The           wear layer may be smooth, embossed, or textured with or without valley (depressed) printing. The wear layer does not include temporary finishes or maintenance coatings.

ASTM F1303, Specification for Sheet Vinyl Floor Covering with Backing indicates the following types:

  • Type I: 90% minimum wear layer binder content with following minimum wear layer thickness / usage:

    • Grade 1: 0.51 mm / 0.020" (commercial / light commercial / residential).

    • Grade 2: 0.35 mm / 0.014" (light commercial / residential).

    • Grade 3: 0.25 mm / 0.020" (residential).


  • Type 2: 34% minimum wear layer binder content with following minimum wear layer thickness / usage:

    • Grade 1: 1.27 mm / 0.050" (commercial / light commercial / residential).

    • Grade 2: 0.76 mm / 0.030" (light commercial / residential).

    • Grade 3: 0.51 mm / 0.020" (residential).

.03 Intermediate Layer: This is that portion of a resilient floor covering consisting of reinforcing and foam, etc. Not all resilient flooring may have an intermediate layer.

.04 Backing: This is material with a composition specifically designed for substrate type and use. The type of backing depends on the type of flooring and substrate condition.

.05 Grades: This is the classification of resilient flooring by total wear-layer thickness (in the case of sheet vinyl, the sum of PVC and non-PVC wear layers). The wear-layer system       shall consist of a single layer of multiple layers that do not delaminate under normal use. There are three general grades:
  • Commercial (C) Grade: includes educational / institutional, hospital / health care, retail / mercantile, office, and hospitality areas. This "heavy" gauge may also be used in light commercial and residential areas as well.

  • Light Commercial (LC) Grade: includes multi-family dwelling common areas, and hotel / motel guest rooms. This "medium" gauge may also be used in residential areas.

  • Residential (R) Grade: includes individual homes and living areas in multi-family dwellings. Some manufacturers may also differentiate between a "premium" residential grade (usually a heavier gauge and/or a higher material content (e.g. solid vinyl) and a "standard" residential grade (usually a lighter gauge than premium grade).

6 • RESILIENT FLOORING TYPES

Types: Resilient flooring includes the following flooring product types:

.01 Vinyl Tile Flooring: A general term used to describe the following tile products:
  • Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT) Flooring: composed of a blend of vinyl and resins, plasticizers, fibres, inert fillers, and fade resistant pigments and manufactured as one layer or as surface patterned types. Tiles are available in a number of textures, pattern designs and in a wide range of colours.
    • Applicable Standard: ASTM F1066.
    • Classes: Vinyl tile is classified as follows
      • Class 1: solid colour, uniform throughout.
      • Class 2: through pattern, uniform throughout.
      • Class 3: surface pattern that need not extend through entire thickness.

    • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
      • Gauges: 1.6 mm (1/16"), 2 mm (.080"), 2.4 mm (3/32"), 3 mm (1/8").
      • Sizes: 305 mm (12") square.

    • Advantages: Vinyl composition tile may be used on all types of industry approved substrates. Tiles have good colour retention, are durable, and are easily maintained.
    • Caution: Vinyl composition tile has a tendency to shrink under extreme sunlight exposure and prolonged excessive heat or cold conditions.

  • Solid Vinyl Tile Flooring: composed of polyvinyl chloride resins, plasticizers, alkali resisting pigments and fillers and manufactured in solid homogeneous form with material and colour through full depth of tile.
    • Applicable Standard: ASTM F1700 -13a.

    • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, sizes, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
      • Gauges: 2 mm (.080"), 3 mm (1/8").
      • Sizes: 305 mm (12") square.

    • Advantages: Excellent abrasion resistance, clarity of colours, good resistance to indentation and most common household spills.

    • Caution: Homogeneous solid vinyl tile is susceptible to cigarette burns. Non-textured, high-gloss tile tends to show surface scratches and scuff marks. Substrates must be free of moisture and all contaminates prior to installation.

.02 Sheet Vinyl Flooring: A general term used to describe the following product groups:

  • Flexible Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Flooring: composed of thoroughly blended polyvinyl chloride, plasticizers, colour pigments, stabilizers and fillers manufactured in four basic forms:
    • Solid PVC in single or multiple layers without backing.
    • Solid PVC in single or multiple layers with laminated solid backing.
    • Unfilled PVC wear (i.e. surface) layer with laminated open or closed cell PVC foam backing.
    • Filled PVC wear (i.e. surface) layer with laminated open or close cell PVC foam backing.

    • Applicable Standards
      • Sheet Flooring With Backing: to ASTM F1303.
      • Sheet Flooring Without Backing: to ASTM F1913.

    • Backing: In sheet vinyl flooring with backing there are three classes:
      • Class A: fibrous (non-asbestos formulated) material suitable for use on floors above, on, or below grade.
      • Class B: non-foamed plastic suitable for use on floors above, on, or below grade.
      • Class C: foamed plastic suitable for use on floors above, on, or below grade.

    • Wear Layer: For multi-layer flooring refer to 5.02 above.

    • Grade: Refer to 5.02 above.

    • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

      • Gauges: refer to manufacturer's product literature.
      • Widths: 1220 mm (48"), 1830 mm (72"), 2000 mm (79"), 2740 mm (108"), 3660 mm (144").

    • Advantages: Flexible PVC products provide excellent wear qualities, excellent colour versatility, reduced sound and impact noise, have good indentation recovery and are easy to maintain.

    • Caution: PVC products are sensitive to extreme temperature changes, which may cause expansion or contraction. Substrates must be free of moisture and all contaminates prior to installation.

  • Inlaid or Filled Sheet Vinyl Flooring: composed of consolidated vinyl products, alkali resisting colour pigments, stabilizers and other compounds bonded together under heat and pressure, and manufactured in varying surface textures with cushioned or non-cushioned mineral fibre or vinyl backing.
    • Applicable Standard: ASTM F1303.

    • Wear Layer: For multi-layer flooring refer to 5.02 above.

    • Grade: Refer to 5.02 above.

    • Common Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

      • Gauges: 1.65 mm (0.065") to 2.3 mm (0.090")
      • Widths: 1830 mm (72"), 3660 mm (144").

    • Advantages: Inlaid sheet vinyl provides good durability, ease of maintenance and excellent appearance. Colour and design go all the way through the wear layer. May be installed on all grade levels.

    • Caution: Inlaid sheet vinyl products are sensitive to extreme temperature changes that may cause expansion or contraction. Substrates must be free of moisture and all contaminates prior to installation.

  • Rotogravure Cushioned Sheet Vinyl Flooring:

  • This type of flooring incorporates a transparent (i.e. clear vinyl) wear surface applied over a printed design of realistic images of wood, slate, brick, stone, or other pattern. The process uses rotating print cylinders that systematically print various coloured inks on top of a core layer called the gel coat. The printed pattern is then covered with a clear wear layer that is then fused or oven cured. The process can also emboss a pattern for a 3-D look, which may create maintenance problem because of dirt collecting in the recesses. Generally rotogravure flooring has either an attached mineral fibre or vinyl backing or has a foam cushion layer produced in varying densities and thickness. The flooring may also contain encapsulated fibreglass webbing for increased stability. The two main types of rotogravure flooring are:

    • Light to medium traffic rated products with a light wear surface layer.
    • Medium to heavy traffic rated products with a heavy wear layer surface.

    • Applicable Standard: ASTM F1303.

    • Wear Layer: For multi-layer flooring refer to 5.02 above.

    • Grade: Refer to 5.02 above.

    • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

      • Gauges: a wide range of gauges and wear layers are available.
      • Widths: 1830 (72"), 2000 mm (69"), 2740 mm (108"), 3660 mm (144"), 4570 mm (180").

    • Note: Current CMHC standards require that the vinyl wear surface thickness be not less than 0.25 mm (0.010") and the overall thickness be no less than 1.5 mm (0.060").

    • Advantages: Available in a wide range of styles, patterns, and colours. The inner core of vinyl foam provides a cushion for resiliency, warmth, acoustical properties, and good recovery from indentation. Products are generally easily maintained.

    • Caution: Because the cushioning is near the surface, it can be dented or torn easily by furniture and other objects. Products are also sensitive to extreme temperature changes, which may cause expansion or contraction. Substrates must be free of moisture and all contaminates prior to installation.
.03 Rubber Sheet and Tile Flooring: composed of synthetic and/or natural rubber in combination with fillers and pigments to the full thickness. Both tile and sheet goods are               manufactured in solid and laminated form in a variety of colours, thickness and sizes and with a smooth surface, moulded surface (i.e. profiled pattern that includes raised               square, circle, or diamond shapes), or a textured surface (e.g. slate).

.04 Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Luxury vinyl flooring is a layered product construction. The base layer is made primarily of PVC vinyl, which offers flexibility as well as dimensional stability. The decorative PVC film is laid on top of the base layer. The wear layer is typically a clear vinyl wear layer and may or may not include a urethane coating that provides superior protection from everyday wear and tear.

  • Applicable Standards: in accordance with the following:

    • Sheet Flooring Without Backing: to ASTM F1859.

    • Sheet Flooring With Backing: to ASTM F1860

    • Tile Flooring: to ASTM F1344.

  • Classifications: Rubber tile and sheet flooring is classified as follows:

    • Class 1: Homogeneous rubber material in either a solid colour (Type A) or through mottled colour (Type B).

    • Class 2: Laminated rubber with either a solid colour wear layer (Type A) or a mottled coloured wear layer (Type B).

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauges: 2 mm (.080"), 3 mm (1/8"). Note that the thickness of moulded material (i.e. flooring with a raised pattern) is the overall thickness (not the base thickness).

    • Tile size: 305 mm (12") square.

    • Sheet widths: 1220 mm (48") and 1830 mm (72").

  • Advantages: Rubber flooring is resistant to cigarette burns, has excellent resiliency and non-slip qualities, and good abrasion resistance. It is also economical to maintain and very durable.

  • Caution: Rubber flooring is not recommended where animal fat (e.g. butter), grease, and oil spillage is likely to occur. Substrates must be free of moisture and all contaminates.

.04 Linoleum Sheet and Tile Flooring:

Linoleum derives its name from the main ingredient, linseed oil (in Latin, linum is the word for linseed, which comes from the flax plant, and oleum means oil). The oil is boiled, mixed with melted resins, and combined with powdered cork, wood flour, resins, ground limestone, and other natural materials with mineral pigments added to provide the colour. The mixture is then poured onto a backing of jute canvas or felt (resulting in its calendared appearance) and pressed under heat between rollers to form a continuous sheet that is then cut into sheet and tile form.
  • Applicable Standards: in accordance with the following.
    • Sheet Flooring: ASTM F2034.

    • Tile Flooring: ASTM F2195.

  • Types: Linoleum flooring is classified by the type of backing.
    • Type I: Linoleum sheet with backing (typically jute).

    • Type II: Static dissipative linoleum with backing.

    • Type III: Linoleum sheet with special backing (cork, polyolefin, or other suitable backing).

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
    • Gauge: 2.0 mm (0.08"), 2.5 mm (1/10"), 3.2 mm (1/8"), 4.0 mm (0.16")

    • Tile size: 305 mm (12") and 480 mm (18.9") square.

    • Sheet width: 1830 mm (72"), 2000 mm (79").

  • Advantages: Linoleum flooring can be installed on all permanently dry substrates, has excellent colour retention, and meets LEED requirements. If maintained as recommended by the manufacturer, linoleum will withstand all common wear conditions and retain its original appearance for many years of use.

  • Caution: To prevent adverse seam reactions or adhesive bonding failures due to excessive liquid spillage or surface flooding, the manufacturer's recommended floor protection system (i.e. sealer / wax / etc.) should be applied immediately following installation and adhesive cure. To maintain the finish, this type of flooring requires waxing and buffing and the use of strippers to remove wax build-up (some of these products may be toxic). Waxing products are unfavourably affected by continual moisture and alkali influences and should therefore not be used where moisture emissions at any time exceed the manufacturers maximum levels allowed.

  • Special Note: Because linoleum is manufactured using linseed oil a yellowish cast known as "linoleum bloom" may occur after installation. This is a natural process resulting from the oxidation of the linseed oil during the drying / aging process and will disappear once the flooring is exposed to light resulting in the "true" colours "brought to light". The time required for the bloom to disappear ranges from several hours to several weeks depending on the light source's intensity. Flooring not exposed to light such as that under the kitchen appliances, rugs, etc. will retain this visual discolouration until exposed to light.
.05 Terrazzo Tile Flooring:

This type of flooring is composed of a blend of genuine onyx, marble, or granite chips that are precision ground and polished to a high lustre and inlaid in a resilient flexible thermoset resin matrix and then factory sealed.
  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauge: 3 mm (1/8"), 4.7 mm (3/16"), 6 mm (1/4").

    • Tile Size: 305 mm (12") square.

  • Advantages: Terrazzo resin tiles can be installed on any sound, level, and smooth surface, indoors or outdoors. Tiles are nonporous, waterproof, colourfast, and resistant to most solvents, mild acid, and mild alkaline solutions and have excellent durability and are easily cleaned.

  • Caution: Rinse floor thoroughly after washing. Avoid the use of oil-based sweeping compounds, soap, and scrubbing compounds containing water soluble, inorganic salts or crystallizing salts.

  • Special Note: Local availability may be limited. Material may also be available in patterned wall tile form. Contact local dealer for availability of this "special-use" flooring.

.06 Cork Flooring:

This type of flooring is composed of granulated bark of the cork oak tree. Granules are sorted for uniformity and compressed under heat and pressure into slabs, then cut and finished into various sizes and gauges. Cork flooring is available in tile, plank, and parquetry form in single layer or with an attached backing. Flooring is generally factory pre-finished but may also be unfinished for site finishing.

Note: This type of flooring may also be classified by some as wood flooring because of its material composition (fabricated from cork tree bark).

Note: Refer to Other Flooring F03C2 - Material Guide - Cork Flooring for additional information on this type of flooring.

7 - RESILIENT SPECIALTY FLOORING TYPES
.01 Slip Resistant (Safety) Flooring:

This is a general term used to describe a line of slip resistant resilient flooring that is predominantly used in interior areas where slips and falls are more likely to occur. Slip resistant flooring may be composed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with plasticizers, colour pigments, stabilizers, fillers, and slip resistant components or synthetic or virgin rubber and is typically available in sheet form with tile also available from some manufacturers.

Note: Slip-proof and non-slip flooring are terms that must not be used, as no flooring is entirely slip resistant.

Depending on the performance requirements, some PVC lines of flooring contain aluminium oxide and colour quartz grains throughout the thickness and silicon carbide grains in the surface layer. Others will have a wear layer composed of PVC resin with uniformly dispersed mineral aggregate on a filled backing (mineral aggregate grit). In addition, others are surface textured for extra slip resistant qualities. The type of flooring selected depends on the room usage (e.g. bathing room / shower area, kitchen, etc.), on what materials might be spilled on it (water, soap, grease, etc.), and the type of footwear or lack of same (i.e., bare feet) that may be worn.

The backside of such flooring may be smooth or may contain a fibreglass webbing incorporated at or near its centre. Others may have an attached polyester / cellulose fibreglass backing, or an attached vinyl or mineral fibre backing. Contact the floor covering contractor / distributor for types, grades, and styles available and their recommended use, restrictions, and cleaning requirements.
  • Slip Resistance:

    • The static coefficient of friction of the majority of designated slip resistant flooring will range from 0.6 to 0.9. For a description of slip resistant requirements and testing refer to Part A08B - Slip Resistance.

  • Applicable Standards:

    • PVC Flooring: ASTM F1303, F1913, and slip resistance standards noted.

    • Rubber Flooring: ASTM F1859, F1860, and slip resistance standards noted.

    • Fire Test Data: ASTM E648 / 662 and CAN/ULCB102.2.

  • Sheet Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauges: from 1.65 mm (0.065") to 2.3 mm (0.090").

    • Widths: 1830 mm (72"), 2000 mm (78").

  • Tile Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, sizes, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauges: 2 mm (0.080") and 3 mm (1/8").

    • Sizes: 305 mm (12") square.

  • Typical Uses: In commercial kitchens, industrial and manufacturing assembly areas, laboratories, bathing and wash rooms, on descending walkways, on ramps and in areas where slips are most likely to occur.

  • Restrictions: To maintain the slip resistant characteristics, these lines of flooring must be maintained in strict accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. Floor finishes are generally not recommended.

  • Caution: Cleanabilty may be an issue with some types of safety flooring. This should be verified with the flooring material manufacturer.


.02 Sports Flooring:

A general term used to describe a number of flooring lines that are predominantly used where a cushioned durable floor covering is required for athletic activities. These flooring lines may be manufactured from natural or synthetic rubber, rubber / vinyl combinations, or entirely from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and contain stabilizing agents, fillers, and colour pigments. This flooring may be prefabricated, calendared or vulcanized to a base of natural or synthetic rubber, and may have an attached high or low density foam backing. The backside may be smooth, textured or waffled. Along with its durability and high performance qualities, sports flooring isinherently shock absorbent and may have a manufactured resilient or bounce factor based on the expected end-use of the flooring.

  • Cushion / Resilience / Traction: These factors of sports flooring are critical to the safety of those who are "playing" on it.

  • Types and Styles: Sports Flooring is available in a wide array of styles and surface finishes such as smooth with a glossy or satin finish, sealskin or slate textured, stippled or speckled, etc., and in typically preferred colours such as green, blue, grey, and red. For recommendations of types, styles and colours available for specific areas, contact Floor Covering Contractor / Distributor.

  • Applicable Standards: ASTM F1931 (for flooring) and ASTM F355, ASTM F1292, ASTM F1931 for performance. Note that such flooring does not include sport mats which are under a different standard.

    • PVC Flooring: ASTM F1303, F1913, WK463, and slip resistance standards noted.

    • Rubber Flooring: ASTM F1859, F1860, WK463, and slip resistance standards noted.

    • Fire Test Data: ASTM E648 / 662 and CAN/ULCB102.2.

  • Sheet Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauges: to 19 mm (3/4"). 2.3 mm (0.090"), 4 mm (5/32"), 5 mm (3/16"), 6 mm (1/4"), 8 mm (5/16"), 10 mm (3/8"), 13 mm (1/2").

    • Widths: 915 mm (36"), 1000 mm (39"), 1220 mm (48"), 1830 mm (72"), 2000 mm (79").

    • Other gauges, widths, lengths, styles, and textures are available.

  • Tile Dimensions: Interlocking modules are available from specialized Manufacturers / Distributors. Consult floor covering supplier for further details.

    • Module / Slab / Tile sizes: 305 mm (12"), 610 mm (24"), 915 mm (36"), and 1000 mm (39") square, and 1220 (48") x 1830 mm (60").

    • Other gauges, widths, lengths, styles, and textures are available.

  • Typical Uses: Gymnasiums, Multi-Purpose Areas, Fitness Centres, Weight Rooms, etc.

  • Game Line Marking: Lines for various games (e.g. basketball, volley ball, tennis, badminton, etc.) can be painted on flooring surfaces using special paint or different coloured flooring can be inserted (e.g. basketball keys, centres, etc.) as required. In addition custom logos and designs using the same material can also be inserted into the flooring field.

  • Additional Features: Some types of sports flooring can be "loose laid" installed over acceptable substrates where other activities dictate periodic removal (such as flooring on panel board surfaces over ice surfaces). Consult floor covering supplier for types and availability.

  • Remarks: Manufacturers installation recommendations must be strictly adhered too at all times. Sports flooring must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. The use of floor finishes may be restricted or not recommended.

.03 Moulded Rubber Mat / Slab Flooring:

Similar to sports flooring and used in similar areas this type of flooring is used where safe footing, impact and fall resistance and durability is required.

  • Types and Styles: This type of flooring fabricated in two distinct ways, is available in tile and roll form (as noted) with a smooth or embossed textured surface and in a variety of colours. This flooring may either be loose laid or glue adhered to substrate surfaces in accordance with manufacturers requirements. For recommendations of types, styles, and colours available and installation for specific areas, contact Floor Covering Contractor / Distributor. Note that this type of flooring does not include rubber or synthetic polyurethane poured-in-place athletic surfaces.

    • Moulded Solid Rubber: Composed of natural and/or synthetic moulded / vulcanized rubber material in solid or laminated form (i.e., with bonded cushion waffled backing) and available in large tile or sheet form.

    • Bonded Granulated Rubber: Composed of non-laminated minimum 50% recycled tire rubber (buffings, black SBR) and coloured EPDM virgin rubber granules / powder chemically bonded using a non-toxic polyurethane binder and available in large tile form with straight butt or interlocking edges.

  • Applicable Standards: ASTM F355, ASTM F1292, ASTM F1931.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, colours, and availability.

  • Typical Uses: Fitness Centres, Weight Rooms, Indoor Track and Field Areas, Ice Arenas (skate traffic), Golfing Facilities (spike traffic), Ski Facilities, Child Play Areas (fall safety), etc.

  • Remarks: Installation shall be in accordance with manufacturer's printed specifications.

  • Caution: Bonded granulated rubber is formed in block or roll form with flooring material sliced from the block or roll in standard sizes and a variety of thicknesses. Material that is sliced from rolls may have a memory and curl up at ends.

.04 Static Control Flooring: a general term used for flooring that embodies static disseminating properties designed to conduct the build up of static charges. Static control flooring is a specialty flooring material available in sheet and tile form in a variety of styles, colours, and thicknesses. This flooring is available in a number of types to satisfy a number of specific conditions / end-uses. These are:

  • Calendared or fused conductive flooring.
  • Flooring with an attached conductive backing.
  • Chemically induced conductive flooring.
  • Block-pressed conductive flooring.
  • SDT (VCT) tile flooring with integral static dissipative elements.
Note: Some types of resilient flooring are not static dissipative.

Static Generation: Static electricity generation is dependent on the type of flooring, the type of footwear, and temperature and humidity conditions and is developed for example when an individual walks or a cart is pushed across a floor and is dissipated when the individual or cart touches a conductive surface. This electrostatic discharge nuisance is normally a minor inconvenience, but in some cases static electricity can cause more serious problems, particularly with sensitive electronic equipment and in sensitive areas such as in hospital operating rooms. The capacity of flooring materials to dissipate static electricity depends on the type of flooring used and upon specific project requirements.

  • Types of static control flooring with respect to their conductance (or resistance) (based on industry acceptable terminology) are as follows:
  • Insulative / Non-Conductive Flooring: This is resilient flooring with a very high electrical resistance (typically well above 1014 ohms) and commonly produced as high dielectric strength mats that are used to prevent people standing on them from being grounded in areas where exposure to high voltage equipment may be a shock hazard. Insulative or non-conductive mats do not fall within the scope of this industry.
    •  Most regular, i.e., non-designated static control resilient flooring does not have electrical properties. This flooring falls in the range of 1011 to 1014 ohms resistance, and is therefore considered non-conductive under normal use. Since most electrical equipment / components are adequately housed and protected from transmitted static charges, the majority of regular available resilient flooring products have been successfully used in all types of areas including hospital operating rooms, computer rooms, clean rooms, etc., without creating static electricity problems.

  • Anti-Static Flooring: This is resilient flooring with a resistance rating below 1012 _ohms that will not generate an electric charge above the human threshold of sensitivity (2.5 kV at 20% RH / 21°C (70°F).
    •  Most resilient flooring will release / generate very little static charge. When classified as anti-static, this type of flooring will generally have a resistance rating below 1012 ohms and should not create static electricity under normal traffic conditions. Anti-static flooring should not be used as conductive or static dissipative flooring.

  • Static Dissipative Flooring: This is resilient flooring with a resistance rating below 1.0 x 106 to 1.0 x 109 ohms that is designed to drain static electricity at a rate that will not create a reverse aura or magnetic field when installed and used as recommended by the manufacturer. This flooring is recommended for areas where computers or electronic equipment is being manufactured, operated or where electronic components are being assembled, in telecommunication installation areas, medical diagnostic instruments areas, clean rooms, etc.
    •  Testing method: Use an Ohmmeter with a nominal open circuit voltage of 100 v DC below 5.0 mA, capable of reading ohm resistance from 1,000,000 _. to 1,000,000,000 _.    (106 B 109) resistance. Follow ohm meter manufacturer's instructions and test to verify resistance of 106 B109_.

  • Conductive Flooring: This is resilient flooring with a resistance rating below 2.5 x 104 to 1.0 x 106_ ohms and is designed for areas where potentially explosive gases or solids exist, such as in some laboratories, munitions and fireworks manufacturing, fuel storage and operating rooms, or other areas requiring such a flooring system. Static electricity is drained on contact when proper footwear is used.
    • Testing method: Use an Ohmmeter with nominal open circuit voltage of 500 V DC and short circuit current of 2.5 mA to 10 mA, capable of reading ohm resistance from 10,000 ohms to 10 mega-ohms. Follow ohm meter manufacturer's instructions and test to verify resistance of 2.5 x 104 B 1 x 106 _.

  • Super Conductive Flooring: This is flooring with a resistance rating below 1.0 to 1.0 x 104 _ ohms and is recommended for areas where the possibility of static charges could cause a fire and/or explosion hazard, such as in munitions plants, chemical processing plants and warehouses and fireworks production factories and storage areas. Super conductive flooring does not fall within the scope or jurisdiction of the resilient flooring industry.

  • Applicable Standards: CGSB 81-GP-1M (flooring) and ASTM F 150 (test method for electrical resistance) are general standards. ANSI/ESD S 7.1 ESD (resistive characterisation of flooring material), and ESD STM97.1 (floor material resistance) are more specific. In Europe: EN 100015 (for requirements for cleanrooms) and IEC 1340-4-1, Part 4 were developed specifically for static control flooring in electronics environments and replace such general resistance standards as ASTM F150 and ANSI 99.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product material, gauges, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauges: from 2 mm (0.80") to 3 mm (1/8").

    • Tile Sizes: 305 (12"), 610 mm (24") square.

    • Sheet Widths: 1220 mm (48"), 1830 mm (72"), and 2000 mm (78").

  • Grounding System: full or partial grounding system, involving the use of a conductive adhesive and/or a full or modified grounding grid system in accordance with flooring manufacturers specific requirements. Grounding requirements must be coordinated with electric system for connection to building electrical grounding.

  • Caution: manufacturer's installation recommendations must be strictly adhered too. Substrates must be free of all contaminants prior to installation. To retain conductive functions, floor finishes (other than initial system site applied finishes) must not be applied. This includes all adjacent areas up to 15 meters (50 feet) away, unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer of flooring. Due to limited consumer demand, contact floor covering contractor / distributor for detailed information regarding types, functions and uses of static control flooring lines.

  • Installation: Since there are different classes of SC Flooring lines, different installation systems are recommended. Depending on the class of S.C. flooring selected, specification requirements may prescribe employing a full or partial grounding system, involving the use of a conductive adhesive and a full or modified grounding grid system. Floor covering manufacturers' installation recommendations must be strictly adhered too in every situation. The flooring system must be connected to the building electrical ground provided by an authorized electrician in accordance with the Electrical Code.
 
.05 Rubber Runner: There are two basic types:

  • Ribbed Surface Type: 3 mm (1/8") or 4 mm (5/32") thick x 915 mm (36") wide. This material is virtually slip resistant.

  • Plain Surface Type: 2.4 mm (3/32"), 3 mm (1/8"), or 4.8 mm (3/16") thick x 915 mm (36") wide.

.06 Exterior Resilient Flooring: Composed of rubber, vinyl, or a combination of rubber and vinyl. Such products must be designated for exterior (outdoor or indoor / outdoor) use by       the manufacturer. Contact floor covering dealer for types and sizes; expect choice restrictions.


8 • RESILIENT BASES

.01 Resilient bases are made of either dimensionally stable and flexible moulded synthetic or natural rubber or extruded vinyl with the material and colour homogenous throughout and with no blisters, cracks or physical defects allowed to mar their appearance. Most are provided with a ribbed back to aid in adhesion. Bases must also have no residual staining effects on walls. Material shall meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Hardness: (to ASTM D2240) Shore A.
    • Rubber: minimum 85.

    • Vinyl: minimum 90.

  • Flexibility: Will not crack, break, or show any signs of fatigue when bent around a 6 mm (1/4") diameter cylinder.

  • Durability: (to ASTM F1861) Meets or exceeds the performance requirements for resistance to heat / light, aging, chemicals, and dimensional stability.

  • Fire Resistance: Class C to ASTM E84 / NFPA 255 (Steiner Tunnel Test), Class 1 to ASTM E648 / NFPA 253 (Critical Radiant Flux), and smoke density of 450 or less in accordance with ASTM E 662 and NFPA 258.

.02 Material:
  • Rubber Base: Thermoset / moulded synthetic and/or natural rubber in combination with filler and pigments and to requirements noted above.
    • Applicable Standard: ASTM F1861, Type TP.

  • Vinyl Base: Extruded polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in combination with filler and pigments and to requirements noted above.
    • Applicable Standard: ASTM F1861, Type TV.

.03 Colours and Textures: A variety of colours are available in a low gloss satin finish with some manufacturers also providing high gloss finishes for certain product lines. Confirm with specific manufacturer for complete colour range and finish. Some manufacturers may also offer bases with a textured or marbled surface.
  • Caution: The type of base (toe-less, standard or extended toe, self-cove, vent cove, or profiled), height, and colour must be specified and clearly indicated on Finish Schedules because of the wide range of prices. If no material, type, or colour has been specified, it will be assumed to be either a black vinyl standard or toe-less base (depending on type of flooring, e.g. toe-less base for carpet). Refer also to Remark note for base corners below.

.04 Dimensions: Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, and availability for base material (rubber or vinyl) and types. Common sizes (unless           otherwise noted under types) are as follows:
  • Thicknesses: (uniform end to end) 3 mm (1/8") with 2 mm (0.080") available for vinyl base only.
  • Heights: 63.5 mm (2 1/2"), 102 mm (4"), and 150 mm (6") are typical heights (75 mm (3"). 89 mm (3 1/2"), 114 mm (4 1/2") and 125 mm (5") may also be available – verify with manufacturer).
  • Lengths: 915 mm (36"), 1220 mm (48"), or coils of 3660 mm (144") for all heights and 3050 mm (100") for 152 mm (6@) base. Most common use: coils / continuous lengths.

.05 Types: A variety of types are available to suit flooring and design requirements. These include the following:
  • Cove or Toe Base: This is a base with a sloped extension at the bottom of 16 mm (5/8") standard or extended toe of 25 mm (1") offered by some manufacturers.
  • Straight or Toe-Less Base: Identical in all aspects to cove base except that the coved-toe has been removed.
    • Caution: Straight or toe-less base may be used in conjunction with flooring that is installed tight to wall faces such as with some carpet over cushion and resilient flooring installations. However, because of the small area at the foot of the base that provides only a minimum coverage of the flooring this type of base should not be used where there is a gap between the flooring and wall face such as with resilient tile and sheet goods, glue-down carpet, or other flooring materials of similar thickness or characteristics. Specify top-set cove base.

  • Self-Cove or Sanitary Base: This is a base with an extended horizontal square edge toe for heat welding base to resilient flooring.
    • Dimensions: Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, heights, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows.
      • Heights: 102 mm (4"), 63.5 mm (2 1/2"), and 150 mm (6").
      • Toe widths: 16 mm (5/8"), 50 mm (2"), and 75 mm (3").
      • Lengths: 1220 mm (48").

  • Tapered Base: Wedge tapered base for carpet with 6 mm (1/4") notch with spacer used in lieu of toe-less or toe base. Base is installed before carpet installation.
    • Dimensions: Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, heights, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
      • Heights: 84 mm (3 5/16") and 106 mm (4 3/16").

  • Vent-Cove Base: Heavy-duty moulded rubber base complete with square or semi-circular vertical slots on back face to permit air circulation from flooring over spaced furring or cushions and with a toe that covers floor expansion voids. Base is manufactured in limited colours (generally black and brown) and is generally used in gymnasiums and other sports floor installations.
    • Dimensions: Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, heights, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
      • Height: 102 mm (4") and 150 mm (6").
      • Thickness: from 8 mm (5/16") to 10 mm (3/8").
      • Toe width: 75 mm (3").
      • Outside corners: 102 mm (4").
      • Lengths: 1220 mm (48").
  • Profiled or Millwork Base: This is a specialty rubber base with a profile similar to moulded wood base board and available in various thicknesses and heights that is offered by a limited number of manufacturers. Bases are available in a variety of colours and the material may also be painted in accordance with manufacturers recommendations. Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product availability.
  • Specialty Bases: This type of base is offered by a limited number of manufacturers that include those with photo-luminescent strips and/or letters and directional arrows (e.g. fire exit) for fire exits. Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product availability.
  • Stair Bases: Refer to resilient bases above and stair stringers below.

.06 Prefabricated Base Corners: Consult base manufacturer and local distributor for product types, gauges, lengths, and availability.
  • Types: There are two:
    • Outside Corners: Available for cove / toe, straight / toe less, and self-cove / sanitary base and complete with a minimum return of 57 mm (2 1/4").
    • Inside Corners: Available for cove / toe, straight / toe less, and self-cove / sanitary base. Typically conventional base is used and cut and butted to suit.

  • Remarks: If pre-moulded external and internal corners are required they must be by the same manufacturer as the base and should be from the same colour dye lot / production run as the base. Availability of end stops should be confirmed with manufacturer.

.07 Conventional Base Corners: Refer to Part B06B - Guide Specification for specific details.
  • Types: These are not normally specified except to extent of noting v-grooving back of base in specification for outside corners otherwise the base may be just wrapped.
    • Outside Corners: Base is v-grooved on back face and wrapped around corner.
    • Inside Corners: Base is cut and butted to suit.
Picture
9 • STAIR COVERINGS

.01 General:
  • Profiles: Stair surface profiles include diamond, chevron, studded, ribbed or smooth. Treads and risers may be separate and are also manufactured as one unit, i.e. with an attached riser that is installed as one combined unit.

  • Nosings: Stair treads are available with square, canted, or round noses and must be specified as to the type required.

  • Treads for Visually Impaired: Stair treads for the Visually Impaired (VI) shall comply with Building Code (and American ADA applicable standards). The treads have a tactile warning strip on nosings that is designed to alert the visually impaired of changes in elevation at the top of stairs. They are available in a number of styles and colours with contrasting coloured warning strips. The strips may also be coloured grit tape or carborundum inserts for additional traction.

  • Caution: Manufactured stair treads are made to exact ordered sizes. The flooring contractor should not be held responsible if the finished step exceeds the tread sizes shown on drawings and details. All dimensions given cannot be applied to all types or styles of stair treads. Because nose-depth measurements vary between manufacturers, it is essential that drops be specified. Square nose of pre-moulded stair treads will not fit canted risers or conform exactly to the stair nose.

.02 Rubber Stair Treads: These treads are made of compression moulded rubber compounds and provide a dense homogeneous composition in a moderate range of colours,               patterns, styles and gauges to suit heavy and medium duty applications.
  • Applicable Standard: ASTM F2169.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauge: 3 mm (1/8"), 4.8 mm (3/16"), 6 mm (1/4"), and 7.9 mm (5/16"). Note: Thickness is measured at nose line of tread.

    • Widths: Stair tread depth.

    • Lengths: 915 mm (36"), 1070 mm (42"), 1220 mm (48"), 1372 mm (54"), 1525 mm (60"), 1830 mm (72").

    • Nose Depths: Because nose depth measurements vary between manufacturers, it is essential that drops be specified.

.03 Vinyl Stair Treads: These treads are made of extruded homogeneous vinyl compounds in a variety of colours, styles, and gauges, for medium and heavy-duty use.
  • Applicable Standard: ASTM F2169.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, depths, widths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:

    • Gauges: From 2 mm (.080") to 6.4 mm (1/4") measured at the nose-line.

    • Widths: Stair tread depth.

    • Lengths: Up to 3660 mm (144").

    • Nose Depths: Because nose depth measurements vary between manufacturers, it is essential that drops be specified.

.04 Stair Nosings: These separate stair edges are available in a range of materials, colours, styles, and sizes and offer extra durability and excellent stair protection and safety.
General Classification: Butt, scribe-to, and overlap types are available with square or round nose profile and designed to accommodate various gauges of floor coverings. Available in smooth and ribbed surface with some types available with abrasive and/or coloured strip or photo-luminescent strip inserts for added safety and for visual impairment.
  • Materials: Resilient nosings are made of dimensionally stable and flexible moulded synthetic or natural rubber or extruded vinyl with the material and colour homogenous throughout and with no blisters, cracks or physical defects allowed to mar their appearance. Most are provided with a ribbed back to aid in adhesion. Extruded aluminum nosings are available in a variety of finishes as noted below.
    • The following are available:
    • moulded rubber.
    • extruded vinyl.
    • extruded aluminum.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
    • Gauges and Widths: vary with each manufacturer.
    • Lengths: 2740 mm (108") or 3660 mm (144").

.05 Stair Risers: These are made from flat or moulded rubber and can be supplied in the same or contrasting colours to match moulded treads.

  • Types: Pre-formed toe or toeless, continuous the full length of the riser. Pattern to be marbled or plain with a range of colours to match treads. Check availability with local floor covering dealer.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
    • Gauges: 2.4 mm (3/16"), 3 mm (1/8").
    • Widths: Height of riser.
    • Lengths: 2740 mm (108") or 3660 mm (144")

.06 Stair Stringers or Skirting: from vinyl or rubber that can be supplied in the same or contrasting colours to match moulded treads.
  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, heights, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
    • Gauges: 2.4 mm (3/32").
    • Heights: 254 mm (10") typical, others available but must be clearly specified.
  • Remarks: If resilient stringers are used on stairs they must be by the same manufacturer and from the same (colour / dye lot) production run as the resilient base used on landings base.

.07 Tactile Warning Strips: Made of vinyl or rubber composition and fabricated for interior installations to warn the visually impaired of a potential danger, and to alert pedestrians           that they are approaching a potential hazard such as ramps, stairways, or other obstacles by providing a perceptible change of colour and texture on the floor surface.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product gauges, widths, lengths, and availability. Common sizes are as follows:
    • Gauges: 3 mm (1/8") thick with 1.6 mm (1/16") deep grooves.
    • Widths: 230 mm (9"), 305 mm (12"), 450 mm (18"), 610 mm (24"), and 915 mm (36").
    • Lengths: From 915 mm (36") to 15250 mm (50")

.08 Remarks: Installation of treads, risers, and stringers shall be in accordance with manufacturer's printed instructions.

10 • ACCESSORIES

.01 Protective Edgings:

  • Description: Purpose made vinyl, rubber, or metal edging designed to protect exposed flooring material edges from damage and provide a low-profile transition from one flooring material to another (e.g. resilient flooring to carpet, ceramic tile, hardwood / laminate, or concrete flooring) without creating a tripping hazard (e.g. where abutting, edging thickness shall be the same as resilient flooring). Edgings shall be designed to butt to or overlap flooring materials and be adhered and/or mechanically fastened. Vinyl and rubber materials shall be homogeneously constructed with colour extending throughout material and be free of blisters, cracks, colour variations, or other imperfections. Various types are available:

    • Reducers: Butt-to or overlapping types to suit flooring and thicknesses of materials.
    • Contour Edging: Flexible edging for curved wall without resilient base or for flooring with curved edges.
  • Colours: Consult with manufacturer for available colours and finishes. Rubber and vinyl edgings shall be black unless otherwise specified.

  • Dimensions: Consult floor covering manufacturer and local distributor for product profiles / tapers / thickness, widths, lengths, and availability.
11 • FINISHES

.01 Flooring materials are either pre-finished or require a site applied finish after installation. The provision and maintenance of such finishes must be in strict accordance with the           flooring manufacturers requirements particularly in regard to slip resistance and static dissipation. This also includes the use of cleaning and maintenance materials                           recommended by the manufacturer. To use other cleaning materials and procedures may well void any manufacturer's guarantees and warranties.

.02 Special Note: Where a high gloss floor finish is required by the end user, careful consideration must be given to substrate preparation as such finishes will highlight any                   imperfection under the flooring including cracks, ridges, dimples, and even particulate matter not removed by cleaning before flooring installation.