B04B - Installation - Floor Covering Reference Manual

B04B - INSTALLATION GUIDES - INSTALLATION

B04B-1 Resilient flooring installation - General Requirements
B04B-2 Resilient flooring installation methods
B04B-3 Installation of resilient sheet flooring
B04B-4 Resilient floor seams
B04B-5 Flash-coved flooring installations
B04B-6 Installation of resilient floor tile, Luxury Vinyl Tile and Luxury Vinyl Plank
B04B-7 Installation of molded (textured) rubber tile / slabs
B04B-8 Installation of rubber runner materials
B04B-9 Installation of static control tile and sheet flooring
B04B-10 Installation of slip resistant tile and sheet flooring
B04B-11 Installation of sports flooring
B04B-12 Installation of stair finishes
B04B-12a Tactile Strips
B04B-13 Installation of feature strips and inserts
B04B-14 Installation of accessories
B04B-15 Installation of bases
B04B-16 Construction joints
B04B-17 Protection
B04B-18 Maintenance data

Preface:
This reference guide covers the installation of resilient flooring and related materials. Individuals using this guide should verify all facts relative to the particular project requirements.

1 • RESILIENT FLOORING INSTALLATION - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

.01 General:

The installation of resilient flooring shall be governed by the scope of work (including work included and excluded) as noted in Part B04A - Scope of Work unless otherwise defined by trade agreements within the area of jurisdiction of the work.
The materials, equipment, and services required to supply and install resilient flooring shall be governed by the requirements noted in Part B03C - Material Guide (Resilient Flooring).
Regardless of the installation method chosen, proper preparation and the use of skilled installers is necessary for a satisfactory finished appearance and the performance of resilient flooring and related accessories.
Most resilient floor covering contractors employ highly skilled installers who recognize the importance of following proper procedures to assure both the best appearance and the best performance of the finished installation. This means careful attention must be given to the proper preparation of substrates, a properly planned installation layout to assure colour and pattern match, pre-conditioning of flooring materials, and finally the use of correct installation procedures and techniques. The resilient flooring manufacturer's recommended installation procedures must be followed. The manufacturer will reserve the right to withhold any guarantee unless there is rigid adherence to such procedures.
Part of any installation is the correct choice of appropriate materials to suit both the project design requirements and actual conditions.
Prior to installation, the resilient flooring manufacturer and the adhesive manufacturer (when applicable) must be consulted in regard to the suitability of and recommendations for their flooring materials and method of installations. Only methods and materials specifically designed for the material and installation method selected shall be used.

.02 Tools and Installation Materials:

All resilient flooring and related accessories shall be installed using tools and materials recommended by the material manufacturers and as referenced in this standard.
Proper tools and use of appropriate materials are essential for skilled and proficient resilient flooring installation.
All required tools should be on the job site during the complete duration of installation work to assure a uniform and correct installation.

.03 Acceptable Substrates and Conditions:

Refer to Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions, for acceptable substrate types and environmental conditions for the installation of resilient flooring materials.
Unless otherwise specified or agreed to prior to Bidding or installation, the General Contractor or Owner is responsible for providing acceptable substrates and site conditions for the installation of resilient flooring and related materials.
The type, location, condition, and preparation of new and existing substrate surfaces shall be in accordance with the resilient flooring material manufacturer's recommendations for the particular flooring product specified and the installation conditions that apply.
All concrete substrate surfaces shall be tested for temperature, moisture and alkalinity in accordance with floor covering material manufacturer's recommendations and requirements as noted in Part A11 - Substrate Testing. All other substrate surfaces shall be tested for moisture as required to these noted requirements.
All wooden substrate sheathing shall be covered with a suitable panel underlayment. The panel underlayment shall be specifically manufactured and approved for installation beneath the scheduled floor covering. Note: OSB (Oriented Strand Board), particle board, chipboard, lauan or composite type underlayment’s are not acceptable for installation beneath resilient flooring.
All site conditions, installation requirements, and timetable for work shall be reviewed. Substrates, environmental conditions, and work by other trades shall be acceptable prior to commencing any installation of resilient flooring and to ensure that the schedule for installing such materials can be maintained.
Any existing resilient flooring or other existing floor covering materials, including adhesives, shall be removed and disposed of in a legal manner or recycled where possible, or where permitted, be covered by an acceptable underlayment.
Substrate surfaces shall be sound, true and flat to a tolerance of 4.5 mm in 3 m (3/16’’ in 10 ft.) for floors and free of deflection of no more than L/360 of span under live or dead load.
All substrate surfaces to receive resilient flooring shall be structurally sound and be clean, dry, and smooth (i.e., be free of moisture, dirt, dust, soil, existing adhesive, paint, varnish, oils, grease, waxes, sealers, curing and hardening compounds, and any other substances detrimental to fillers and adhesives or that may cause localized or widespread bond failure). All surfaces shall be vacuumed clean. Special Note: The use of cleaning methods and cleaning agents, such as sweeping and cleaning compounds, shall be pre-approved by the adhesive and resilient flooring manufacturers before use as some of these products are detrimental to adhesive bonding or may have a detrimental affect on the flooring after installation.
All cracks and protrusions shall be filled or levelled and all indentations and joints must be properly patched or repaired.
Expansion, isolation or other moving joints shall ground flat and covered with an appropriate cover plate.
Where used, patching compounds must be polymer-fortified, suitable for the intended application, and be applied in strict accordance with the patching material manufacturer's instructions and requirements noted in Part A13 - Patching and Filling.
If required by the patch or adhesive manufacturer, patched areas shall be primed, particularly if they are porous and highly absorbent, which may prevent adequate adhesive bond.
Substrate surfaces shall be sealed and/or primed if required by the adhesive and resilient flooring manufacturer using materials and methods acceptable to them.
All defects likely to impair finished work shall be reported to the General Contractor, Consultant, and Owner in writing. Resilient flooring installation work shall not proceed until all deficiencies and unsatisfactory site and environmental conditions have been corrected. Special Note: Resilient flooring, when bonded with an adhesive, follows every contour of a substrate, essentially forming a skin. Joints, cracks, depressions, protrusions, and seemingly insignificant imperfections on a substrate surface may telegraph through and become very obvious after the resilient flooring is installed particularly if the flooring has a high gloss finish or if it is highly polished. In some instances these imperfections may be so significant that they may cause premature wear or be so visible and unsightly that an Owner may reject the floor (unless other causes may be at fault).
Where flooring is installed in areas with floor drains such as in facility kitchens, wash and bathing rooms, wheel chair showers etc., the substrate surface should be positively sloped to drains and the flooring materials flash coved up the walls. All other protrusions through such flooring should be carefully detailed to ensure waterproof and sanitary integrity. This includes ensuring the use of appropriate floor drains and trench covers that are flush with and not above the floor surface with the flooring material clamped down into the drain or trench and not cut and caulked to the drain or trench cover. Special Note: Review floor penetrations and drains with appropriate consultants during the design and specification phase and with applicable trades before installation to ensure that such penetrations, particularly floor drains and trenches, are appropriately specified, detailed, and installed to maintain waterproof integrity of the floor installation.
Installing resilient flooring prematurely before other trades have completed their work or in the presence of personnel not essential to the installation of resilient flooring often results in visible damage, soiling, adhesive failure, delamination, and dimensional instability. These conditions may not be immediately evident. unless otherwise permitted, the installation of resilient flooring should not begin until the work of all other trades has been completed and the area is cleared of all obstacles, movable objects etc., and on-site worker traffic.
Adequate measures shall be taken to protect the face of doors, door frames, and walls from marring due to movement and installation of resilient flooring and / or removal of existing floor covering materials.

.04 Planning and layout

All facets of resilient flooring installation shall be carefully coordinated before ordering materials.
To aid in the estimation / bidding and ordering / installation of resilient flooring materials, correct measurements, detailed diagrams and cut lists are necessary.
In large scale installations, scaled drawings should be prepared using actual site measurements for both new construction or existing areas in order to determine quantities and types of materials to be installed including resilient flooring, adhesive, mouldings and other accessories, and to identify proper location of seams.
The following shall also be considered:
1. Type and location of seams in each area, with seams kept to a minimum.
2. Pattern direction and matching in each area.
3. Quantities of resilient flooring needed for each area, including roll length requirements based generally on the following:
  - Allowing a minimum of 75 mm (3") on each length cut.
  - Allowing a minimum of 75 mm (3") on each width cut.
  - The type of pattern match and repeat and the measurements between a pattern design and repeat.
4. Use of excess material in each area and if and how it will be used without resorting to piecemeal installations. Patchwork is not permitted!
5. Refer to seam and pattern matching requirements below.

.05 Shop Drawings (installation / seam layout drawings):

Unless otherwise specified, the resilient flooring supplier / contractor shall provide material ordering / shop drawings to the design authority or Owner for pre-approval (in accordance with specification submittal requirements where applicable).
Shop (i.e., installation / seam layout) drawings shall be prepared for each floor area to receive resilient flooring with each area measured individually as the basis for supplying, cutting, and seaming. Do not scale the design authority's drawings or calculate sizes from drawing dimensions shown. All measurements must be taken at the site.
Shop drawings shall contain the following information:
1. Room and floor numbers (based on drawing information and Finish Schedules provided by the design authority when applicable).
2. Type of substrate, floor preparation required, and installation method for each area.
3. Type and colour / pattern of resilient flooring required for each area, including roll lengths, i.e., a cut list, and any notations where material colour and pattern direction changes will occur.
4. Resilient sheet flooring seam layout for each area.
5. Excess material in each area and where it will be used (patchwork excluded).
6. Large scale detail drawings if and where required for stair treads, risers, and landings, flash-coved bases, etc.
7. Location and type of all edge mouldings, door terminations, floor drains, and other penetration details.
8. Type and details of base in each area.
Shop drawings shall also include the following additional information as appropriate:
1. Name and address of the project (building).
2. Name, address, telephone, facsimile, and email numbers of the Owner.
3. Name, address, telephone, facsimile, and email numbers of the resilient flooring supplier and installation company.
4. In new or renovation construction, the name, address, telephone, facsimile, and email numbers of the General Contractor or Project Manager and design authority (e.g. architectural or interior design firm).
5. Date of drawing and scale.
6. Party responsible for removing furniture and oversize items in existing areas.
7. Party responsible for removing and disposal of existing floor covering materials in existing areas.
8. Party responsible for preparation of substrate if beyond scope of work requirements. This may include removal of existing materials and slab preparation, underlayments, etc.

.06 Seaming:

Resilient flooring layouts shall be so designed and installed to keep seams at a minimum and be positioned so that where possible:
1. Seams run the length of the area.
2. Main traffic runs along, rather than across seams.
3. Incident light does not strike across seams.
4. Seams are away from areas subject to pivoting traffic.
5. Seams are not perpendicular to doorway openings.
Patchwork is not permitted. Refer also to planning and layout.

.07 Pattern Matching:

Successful installation of patterned resilient flooring, i.e., matching of pattern or design in adjacent widths or in successive roll lengths to present an uninterrupted pattern requires a thorough understanding of flooring manufacturers requirements.

Successful installation of patterned resilient flooring, i.e., matching of pattern or design in adjacent widths or in successive roll lengths to present an uninterrupted pattern requires a thorough understanding of flooring manufacturers requirements.
The resilient flooring manufacturer shall be responsible for providing written installation instructions for pattern matching before installation that shall include any variations in design / pattern that may be expected.
Generally where two or more pieces of the same resilient flooring are joined or seamed, the pattern direction shall be the same.
All cut resilient flooring used as field pieces should be marked to indicate pattern direction before any arrows on the back of flooring have been removed or where they are not indicated on cut pieces.
Pattern direction on stairs shall be parallel to the run or length of the stair.

.08 Storage, Handling, and Delivery:

Most resilient flooring manufacturers have high manufacturing standards and stringent inspection procedures for their finished products. Nevertheless, all resilient flooring should be inspected upon delivery and before installation and if any suspected irregularities are noted that might give rise to undesirable visual effects, installation should not proceed until the manufacturer has inspected the resilient flooring and an agreed upon course of action has been established.
Resilient flooring and related installation materials shall be stored, handled, and delivered in strict accordance with material manufacturer's requirements and in a manner to prevent damage or distortion to the materials and surrounding surfaces. Under no circumstances shall sheet resilient flooring rolls be bent, folded, or laid flat.
All materials shall be stored in the shop and on site in a secure, climate-controlled, dry space within manufacturer's written temperature and humidity requirements, and adequately protected from dirt, dust, moisture, and other contaminants.
Resilient flooring materials shall be rolled or boxed in appropriate wrappings approved by the manufacturer with the type, colour and pattern of flooring and other pertinent information clearly marked on each roll or carton and delivered directly to work areas when required.
Sheet resilient flooring shall be stored in roll form on end unless otherwise required by the manufacturer or stacked in boxes to height limitations required by the manufacturer.
All other materials (e.g. adhesives, accessories, etc.) shall be in wrapped / sealed in original-labelled and unopened containers and stored on flat.
Cut resilient flooring not required for immediate installation shall be re-rolled and stood on end in a manner that will not damage such materials. In no circumstances shall such materials be draped over anything that creates a crease or be moved to and/or stored in an unconditioned space.

.09 Conditioning:

All resilient flooring, adhesive, and related materials shall be conditioned or acclimatized within the area of installation and be adequately protected from soil, dust, moisture, and other contaminants during this time. Where possible the conditioning period shall be for at least 48 hours before installation, or as a minimum, at least until the materials reach temperature and humidity levels of the installation area, providing they are within requirements noted herein.
To facilitate conditioning, sheet resilient flooring shall be unrolled in the area in which it is to be installed prior to actual installation to relax the material to the actual site conditions, to minimize wrinkling and buckling, and to permit some off-gassing, within material manufacturer's time limits and conditions. To facilitate relaxation, pre-cutting of sheet flooring is recommended.
Failure to unroll and acclimatize resilient flooring may result in:
1. dimensional changes.
2. permanent creases or indentation.
3. development of wrinkles and bubbles over time.
4. lack of adhesion.
The area in which resilient flooring materials are to be installed must also be heated and ventilated and the ambient and substrate temperatures and humidity levels must be maintained (before, during and after installation) within the flooring and adhesive manufacturers requirements. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, the ambient temperature shall be between 18° C to 29° C (65° F to 85° F) and the relative humidity shall be between 40% to 60%. Likewise, the minimum substrate temperature (notably for concrete) shall be not less than 16° C (60° F) or more than 29° C (85° F). Temperatures above and below these levels affect adhesive curing time.
Note: If the temperature and humidity levels are outside these parameters, the installation must not begin until the heating and ventilation system (and air conditioning system if an option) is operational and the temperature and humidity level reaches the minimum manufacturers and NFCA requirements and is maintained for a minimum of 48 hours before, during, and at least 48 hours after the installation.
Exposing installed floor coverings to temperatures and or relative humidity above or below recommended levels can lead to both shrinkage (gapping, exposed edges) and expansion (lifting edges, buckling, peaked joints).
The heating and air conditioning systems in these areas shall be carefully controlled during and after installation so as to maintain the heat and humidity levels at a constant level within the ranges noted.
To help exhaust, dissipate and eliminate lingering odours of "new" resilient flooring and adhesive from the installation area, the ventilation system and/or exhaust fans shall be operated at full capacity for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours, with the air exhausted to the outside and with air re-circulation avoided. Doors and windows shall also be opened if practical and possible to aid in this process.

.10 Seam Types:

There are two resilient sheet flooring seam finishing options with the method used dictated by the type of sheet flooring and the project requirements. In all cases the resilient flooring manufacturer shall be consulted for specific recommendations.
1. Chemically Fused Seams: This method uses manufacturers seam sealer applied to the face of flooring edges, which are then butted and chemically fused together.
2. Heat Welded Seams: This method uses a V or U shaped router to groove the interface joint between adjacent sheets and vinyl welding rods that are heat welded into place to fuse the sheets together. The welded joint is then shaved flat to provide a smooth level surface.
A detailed description of these methods is included later in this section.

2 • RESILIENT FLOORING INSTALLATION METHODS

.01 There are a variety of methods used to install resilient flooring. Contact the flooring manufacturer / supplier for particular methods and products. Some of these include:

Full adhesive spread installation: This is the typical method used. It may also include the use of a special adhesive under all seams.
Perimeter adhesive installation: This method involves the use of a specified adhesive around the perimeter of an area only. This is used for flooring only when specifically designated / approved by the manufacturer.
Modified loose-lay installation:This method is restricted to certain manufacturers and their respective products. Techniques vary and may include the use of special tapes or adhesive under seams and the use of tape, adhesive, or staples around the perimeter of the installation area.
Loose-lay installation: This method is also generally restricted to certain manufactures and their respective products. No fastener (e.g. adhesive) of any kind is recommended. Contact the specific flooring manufacturer and contractor for details of types, location, and condition of subfloors and areas recommended.

.02 Products recommended for the modified loose lay and/or or the loose-lay installation methods can be installed on a manufacturer's approved particleboard subfloor.

.03 Lightweight and/or cellular concrete and gypsum-based topping: These materials are not suitable for the application of any resilient flooring unless otherwise pre-approved by the flooring manufacturer. Such subfloors must be topped with a minimum of 25 mm (1") of standard concrete or with an industry approved Portland cement base underlayment mixed and applied as directed by the product manufacturer.

.04 Wood panels over concrete: The installation of resilient flooring over this assembly is not recommended.

3 • INSTALLATION OF RESILIENT SHEET FLOORING

.01 General Requirements:

There are a great variety of resilient sheet flooring products manufactured. The most common are as follows:
1. Cushion vinyl.
2. Inlaid or filled vinyl.
3. Flexible PVC.
4. Linoleum.
5. Rubber flooring.
6. Sports flooring.
7. Slip resistant / safety flooring.
8. Conductive/dissipative flooring.
A number of these can be installed in similar fashion while others require strict adherence to the manufacturer's recommendations. Consult with floor covering manufacturer / distributor / contractor for recommended installation specification for each product selected.
The following recommendations are intended as a general guide. On request, manufacturers will make available detailed product and installation information for each line of sheet flooring manufactured.
Installation of resilient sheet flooring must be performed by qualified installers fully familiar with all aspects of this type of installation.
All materials shall be conditioned before installation as noted herein.
Adhesives used shall be of the type recommended by the floor covering manufacturer. For detailed information follow instructions on the container label regarding adhesive application, open time etc. and MSD requirements.

.02 Resilient Sheet Flooring Installation

The installation of sheet goods must be planned for the most attractive appearance and to minimize seams by using full width rolls where possible. Layout area with a minimum number of seams, and plan seams to fall in the least conspicuous and low traffic areas. Layout corridors for full width installation, where corridors are wider than sheet material, lay full width down the centre with equal border on each side. When using pattern goods, plan seams to run parallel to the short dimension of the area. Allow extra material on each cut for length fitting and/or pattern matching.
Cut length pieces of flooring from the roll in the order they are to be installed and mark to indicate the sequence of installation. On large projects cut all length pieces the day before, to allow for proper on-site conditioning.
Place length pieces from the same dye lot in numerical order according the sequence of cuts and flooring rolls. When specified by the manufacturer, reverse alternate sheets of flooring, to obtain the best colour match. Overlap the preceding pieces at the edges and match pattern and/or colour of adjoining pieces. Pre-fit material to walls or other vertical surfaces by scribing or hand fitting. Occasionally pattern scribing may be required.
At floor drains and trenches install sheet flooring into clamping ring of floor drains or "down" into floor trench drains where applicable. Cutting and caulking of such flooring flush with floor drain trim or trench grate is not acceptable and flooring will be rejected.
Do not install sheet goods over expansion joints. The use of a proprietary expansion joint cover system suitable for sheet flooring supplied and installed by others is recommended.
Lap back or tube flooring and apply adhesive with suitable notched applicator to obtain manufacturers recommended coverage. Place flooring on wet or tacky adhesive depending on type of flooring on hand, and roll in both directions as each half is installed. Insure flooring makes contact with adhesive along walls, door casings, etc., by firmly hand rolling these areas. Fit sheet goods tightly and neatly to doorways and other vertical surfaces where no base is specified. Terminate flooring at centre line in door openings where adjacent floor finish or colour is dissimilar. Re-roll flooring to ensure uniform adhesion and to eliminate air bubbles.
Do not allow foot traffic for 24 hours; avoid heavy loads and rolling stock on newly installed flooring for at least 5 days.

Note: Lap back or tube refers to the process of "folding back half the flooring that has been dry laid to apply adhesive to the substrate. Care must be taken to avoid sharp kinks or creases in the material. An additional length allowance may be necessary during this process to accommodate for the compaction of flooring while it has been rolled back. Refer to manufacturers specific installation instructions.

4 • RESILIENT FLOOR SEAMS

.01 Seaming Methods: Finish seams in accordance with Industry Standards and in compliance with the floor covering manufacturer's recommendations.

Double Cut Seams: Generally applied when seaming felt-back rotovinyl or light gauge floors.
Trace Cut Seams: Often applied when seaming materials that are heat welded.
Recess Scribed Seams: Generally applied when seaming inlaid vinyl and linoleum floors.

Double Cut Seams

.02 Basic Seam Finishing Methods:

Net Cut Seams: This method of seam finishing is used for certain types of inlaid vinyl, linoleum, and rubber/sports flooring when seam sealing is not specified. Certain types of inlaid vinyl flooring lines require the use of a designated two-component adhesive under the seam area. Follow manufacturer's specification for the types of flooring recommended and details of application. Following adhesive cure, acceptable seams must be without gaps or edge pressure and flush with the adjoining flooring pieces.
Liquid Sealed Seams: This method of seam finishing is predominately used for felt-back rotovinyl floors, some inlaid vinyl lines and numerous speciality flooring lines. Following adhesive cure, acceptable seams must be net fitted without gaps or edge pressure and be flush with the adjoining flooring pieces. Preparation and application of seam sealer must be in compliance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Apply a uniform narrow bead (approximately 3 mm (1/8@) wide) of seam coating in the centre of the seam. Protect the seams until sealer has cured and/or is dry to the touch.
Heat Welded Seams: This method of seam finishing is generally used with flexible PVC flooring, linoleum flooring and some speciality vinyl flooring. Follow manufacturer's seam-finish recommendations for the type of flooring specified. Following adhesive cure, acceptable seams should be slightly loose fitted (approximately 0.3 mm (1/8") and flush with the adjoining flooring pieces. Seam preparation, heat welding and finishing tasks must be performed in compliance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Acceptable heat-welded seams must have the welding thread fully bonded, be straight and parallel along the seams, be without voids or burn marks and trimmed flush with the adjoining flooring widths. Special Note: Due to the complexity of this method of seam finishing, only fully trained and experienced installers may perform this work.

Successful seaming requires manufacturer guidelines be strictly followed

hot weld seams fail when the cut groove is too deep or too wide.

Loose Heat weld - groove cut too wide

5 • FLASH-COVED FLOORING INSTALLATIONS

.01 Flash Coving Sheet Goods:

There are currently three methods of flash coving utilized in the industry. The actual method of flash coving specified, must be in compliance with the manufacturer's product recommendations.
Pencil Coving: This method of flash coving is accomplished without the use of the 22 mm radius cove backing strip, (cove former) installed at the floor / wall junction. Products suitable for pencil coving are generally very flexible and pliable. After completing the flat-laid areas, the ends and sides of the flooring are turned up the wall and at the same time tightly tacked, with the help of a special tool, into the corner of the floor/wall junction, thereby forming a small continuous radius. Limitations: Due to the limited number of suitable floor covering materials available and the necessary installation prerequisites, this method of flash coving has restricted application potentials. The following must be considered:
1. The selected floor covering material must be bendable to a 90-degree crease without breaking or splitting.
2. To achieve an even crease, walls must be tightly fitted to the subfloor with no gaps anywhere.
3. To achieve a proper and long lasting bond of the flooring, walls must be level, straight and perpendicular with the subfloor.
4. An expected degree of maintenance impediment may be experienced due to the small radius along the bottom of the walls.
Standard (Radius) Coving: (one-piece / continuous flash-coving) This method of flash coving is accomplished by installing consecutively placed flooring materials the full length and width in the specified areas. The sides and ends are tightly rolled over the previously installed 22 mm radius cove backing strip to a specified height. The top edge is generally tucked into a prior installed vinyl or metal cap strip. Nearly all currently available sheet goods can be flash-coved. The variations in the recommended methods of installation are generally related to the class of floor covering selected and the associated finish recommendations of the inside and outside corner.
1. Inlaid vinyl and linoleum flooring are generally template-scribed, while flexible PVC, rubber flooring and cushion flooring are generally free-hand fitted. Flash cove installations are generally very labour intensive, with a substantial amount of time spent in finishing the outside and inside corners.
2. Note: Materials containing a stabilizing fibreglass interlayer resist bending and therefore, require extra effort to flash-cove. In addition, walls that are wavy and not perpendicular with the subfloor exert pressure in the undulating areas that could cause the material to lift and buckle.
Border- Coving: This type of installation is generally recommended on sites where a flash-cove installation is preferred in multiple colours. The field material is installed up to a specified distance from all vertical surfaces. The remaining space is then separately covered with the selected border material of the same gauge as the field material. The installation is accomplished by joining the pre-cut border pieces to the field material that is rolled over previously installed radius cove backing strips to a specified height. The top edge of the border material is generally finished with a vinyl or metal capping. Typical border widths are 200 mm (8") or 300 mm (12") wide with half of the width placed on the flooring side and the other half being rolled up the wall. Inside corners are generally scribe-fitted and outside corners are generally mitred.
Preparation of Floor and Wall Surfaces: Floor and wall surfaces must be dry, smooth, level, clean and free of all contaminates. Patch / level surface discrepancies where needed.
Cap Strip (figure 1): The cap/binder strip should be well bonded and continuously wrapped around the external corners with joints at least 610mm (24”) from the external corners (where possible). The top of the cap strip should be flush with the tops of the corner pieces and end stops if they are used. Otherwise, in each corner, measure the height the material is to be flashed and mark or strike chalk lines between these points for the top of the cap strip.
Cove Former (figure 1): Install cove former where shown to facilitate transition at floor and wall junction. Mitre inside and outside corners, and install cove former strips with contact or acrylic-base tack adhesive. Install vinyl / metal capping to specified height, fasten using nails, contact adhesive or double face tape, depending on type of capping used. Wrap / bend outside corners, wrap or mitre inside corners.
1. Double Taper (also referred to as 'Reducing Profile' or 'Dart Profile') transition at door frames (figure 2): Blend flash‑cove by cutting the cove former into 'Double Taper', 200mm in length, reducing the diameter of the cove to a zero radius at point of contact with door frame to eliminate gaps that could accumulate debris and bacteria. Adjust length of 'Double Taper' Profile based on material type and thickness to form a smooth transition between flash‑cove and door frames.

Figure 1.

Figure 2. Double Tapered cove former (stick)

.02 Flash-Coving Ridged Flooring Lines: (e.g. Inlaid Vinyl or Linoleum Flooring basic installation recommendations).

Install pattern felt in areas designated for a flash-cove installation and scribe contours of all vertical surface areas to pattern felt. Place pattern felt on pre-cut flooring material and transfer scribe-lines from pattern felt to flooring. Trim flooring and place in designated area.
Apply adhesive to floor and wall areas and place pre-fitted flooring in designated area. Push flooring into place and bend and roll ends and sides over cove former. Roll floor and wall areas. Place consecutively pre-fitted length pieces and seam where required.
Place and fit inside corners, scribe-fit outside corners and install mitred rectangular outside corner plugs. Remove burr and smooth outside corners.
Clean entire area.

.03 Flash-Coved Flexible PVC Flooring: (basic installation recommendations)

Dry-lay flooring pieces in one continuous length, covering floor and wall areas wherever possible and pre-fit to all projections and wall areas.
Lift flooring and apply adhesive to floor and wall areas. Place pre-fitted flooring onto adhesive and push into place. Bend and tightly roll ends and sides over cove former and up wall to required height, and neatly free-hand fit flooring to capping, and other wall surfaces. Roll floor and wall areas. Install all consecutively cut length pieces.

.04 External and Internal Corner Installations:

External Flash‑Cove Corner: External flash‑coved corners can be fitted with “Butterfly Corners” or “Boot Plug Corners” where flash‑coved base detailing is specified. The type of corner detailing is based on manufacturer’s recommendations accounting for installation conditions, traffic patterns and susceptibility to damage, and the type and thickness of resilient flooring materials specified for the project.
1. Butterfly Corners consist of a 45 degree V-Cut insert, with corners of the insert wrapped around the corner and the bottom of the Vee positioned into the flash‑cove. The corner insert is trimmed and profiled to blend into the flash‑coved resilient flooring materials.
2. Boot Plug Corners consist of a vertical straight mitre cut aligned with the external corner. The resilient flooring material is trimmed and profiled on one side of the corner, and trim piece inserted into the other side of the corner to form a sharp corner matching the flash‑cove profile.
Internal Flash-Cove Corner: Internal flash‑coved corners can be fitted with “Half‑Butterfly Corners” or “Boot Plug Corners” that wrap into corners of resilient flooring materials having flash‑coved base detailing. As with external corners described previously, the type of corner detailing is installation specific, based on susceptibility to damage, the type and thickness of resilient flooring materials and manufacturer’s installation recommendations.
1. Half‑Butterfly Corners are formed by tucking the resilient flooring material into the inside corner, folding the material and either tracing a joining cut line or double cutting at 45 degrees upwards from the flash‑cove away from the corner to blend into the flash‑coved flooring materials.
2. Boot Plug Corners consist of a tight‑fitting vertical mitre cut, pushing the resilient flooring materials tightly into the corner and double cutting to blend the corner profile into the flash‑coved materials.
Joining external and internal cut lines is performed in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and will use either a heat weld with matching coloured thermoplastic thread, or chemical welded and seam sealed based on the type of resilient flooring material used for the project.
Either method for external and internal flash‑cove corners is acceptable, projects may have a mix of corner types where multiple installation conditions exist or different resilient flooring materials are used. Manufacturers may require back cutting, kerfing or notching resilient floor covering materials to reduce the potential for strain and stretch when folding their materials around a corner, other manufacturers may prohibit this practice because it changes their warranty conditions. Maintain close coordination with the flooring manufacturer and the design professional to determine the best approach to corner detailing for the project.

.05 Flash Cove Corner - Installation review standards

Internal corners: Internal corners should have welds that are even-width, smooth, straight, color matching, without deep pockets (“dirt traps”), without scorching/blushing, and continuous without gaps or cracks to the top of the vertical flash cove or to the bottom side of the cap strip.
Mitred or V-plug External corners: External corners should have welds that are even-width, flush and smooth (not rough), color matching, without scorching/blushing, and continuous without gaps or cracks to the top of the vertical flash cove or bottom of the cap strip.

6 • INSTALLATION OF RESILIENT FLOOR TILE

.01 General Requirements:

The following recommendations are intended as a general guide. On request, manufacturers will make available detailed product and installation recommendation for each line of tiles manufactured.
Installation of resilient tile flooring must be performed by qualified installers fully familiar with all aspects of this type of installation.
All materials shall be conditioned before installation as noted herein.
Adhesives used shall be of the type recommended by the tile floor covering manufacturer. For detailed information follow instructions on container label regarding adhesive application, open time etc. and MSD requirements.
For Acceptable Substrates and Conditions refer to PART B04B - Installation Guides - 1 Resilient Flooring Installation - General Requirements . 03 Acceptable Substrates and Conditions. Prepare sub-floor surfaces in strict accordance with manufacturers recommendations and requirements.

.02 Resilient Tile Installation:

Tile shall be laid starting in the centre of the room and working toward the wall. Other acceptable commercial practices can be substituted as the starting point to provide a border width equal to at least half a tile.
Lay tile with joints straight, in true plane and symmetrical. To obtain a uniform effect, distribute variations in shade or pattern of production run, abrupt variations are not allowed.
Tile 'Run Off' shall not exceed 1/8" or manufacturers recommendations. Re size individual tiles as necessary to correct pattern as installation proceeds.
Tile adhesive shall be uniformly applied using a notched trowel and an application rate as recommended by the tile and adhesive manufacturer. Adhesive open time and all safety measures regarding ventilation, open flames and other precautionary requirements noted on the container label shall be observed.
Border tile shall be scribed to vertical surfaces, cut and fitted into place after the field tile has been laid and before wall base has been installed. Roll floor as each section is installed, and again when entire room is complete to ensure uniform adhesion. Tiles to be installed continuous through doorways and other openings for uniform appearance.

.03 Installation Adjustments When Installing Vinyl / Rubber Tiles:

For best colour / pattern match and overall appearance, tiles should be dry laid and stacked face-to-face after lifting to avoid surface marring.
When using one or two-component adhesive, observe adhesive open-time, do not spread more than can be covered within the recommended time span for the conditions that apply (temperature, humidity, etc.). To avoid tile shifting and adhesive oozing, delay tile installation until adhesive-tack has developed.
Remove excessive adhesive from the face of tile immediately and roll flooring in both direction.
When using two-component adhesive, follow manufacturers mixing and installation instructions. Do not pressure fit tile joints and dry-fit fills along vertical surfaces before applying adhesive. Re-roll flooring and if necessary, place weighs until a complete bond has been achieved.
Maintain recommended temperature.
Do not allow foot traffic for 24 hours and avoid heavy loads and rolling stock on newly installed flooring for at least 5 days.

.04 Installation of Luxury Vinyl Tile or Plank (LVT/P) Flooring

Important note: Due to the large variety of LVT/P products available and the variety of installation requirements, always refer directly to manufacturers installation guidelines for the chosen product.

.1 Glue Down Installation (LVT/P)

Prior to installation: Ensure all sub-floor surfaces conform to adhesive and flooring manufacturers requirements for flatness, temperature, moisture, contaminants removal, concrete surface profile, surface porosity, compressive strength and as detailed in 1. General Requirements .3 'Acceptable Substrates and Conditions of this section.
Use the full spread installation method with a premium trowel on or roll on adhesive, follow the manufacturer installation recommendations.
Follow the adhesive manufacturer specific installation recommendations, for areas exposed to direct sunlight.
Note: Exposure to direct sunlight can result in product fading and creates excessive heat directly on the finished flooring and surrounding structure, which may result in movement. During peak sunlight exposure, the use of drapes or other window treatments are required.
Determine the direction that the flooring will run. Typically for rectangular plank / tile products, the flooring runs the length of the room, however, personal preference may determine flooring direction.
Use the notched trowel recommended by the adhesive manufacturer to achieve full transfer of the adhesive to the backing of the floor covering. Work in small enough area to ensure that the planks are laid into adhesive according to the adhesive manufacturer installation methods.
Position the plank in the adhesive without sliding and pressing firmly down, paying special attention to the edges and corners.
Ensure that each plank fit “tightly” together, the planks should not be forced into place.
Lay a complete row of planks and cut the last plank with the cut edge to fit against the opposite wall, the planks should not be forced into place.
For the best visual effect, always stagger the planks from row to row with a minimum 20cm (8") offset, installing the planks in a random pattern.
Periodically check by lifting a plank to ensure full transfer of the adhesive to the backing of the floor covering.
Immediately after installing the flooring, roll each section in both directions with a minimum 100 pound roller, following the adhesive manufacturer installation recommendations; re-roll the entire area after one hour. Promptly remove adhesive smudges with a clean cloth dampened with water while adhesive is still fresh and mineral spirits when dried.
Ensure that the flooring is free from general traffic for 24 hours after installation.
Installations must be from cartons with the same production lot numbers.

.2 Click together (floating) Installation (LVT/P)

Prior to installation: Ensure all sub-floor surfaces conform to flooring manufacturers requirements for flatness, temperature, moisture, contaminants removal, concrete surface profile, surface porosity, compressive strength and as detailed in 1. General Requirements .3 'Acceptable Substrates and Conditions of this section.
Do not secure individual planks or tiles directly to the sub-floor as floating floors are designed to shrink and expand laterally. All door jambs should be undercut. Cabinets should not be installed on top of the flooring system. Wall moldings and transition strips should be installed to hide exposed plank / tile edges but should not be fastened through the tiles.
Determine the direction that the flooring will run. Typically for rectangular plank / tile products, the flooring runs the length of the room, however, personal preference may determine flooring direction.
Note that it may be necessary to cut off the unsupported tongue on the last row so that a clean, solid edge faces the wall.
5/16” expansion gaps (follow manufacturers installation guide for recommended installation gap) should be left around the perimeter of the floor during the installation. This will allow space for the natural expansion and contraction of the planks / tiles.
For the best visual effect, always stagger the planks from row to row with a minimum 20cm (8") offset, installing the planks in a random pattern.
Individual manufactures recommend different tolerances for lengths of unbroken (no expansion joints) flooring. Always refer to product installation guidelines. A general guide is that a maximum square feet area without using transitions is 1000 sq. ft., roughly a 32LF x 32LF room, the maximum unbroken run in any direction is 35LF and expansions transitions are required in all doorways to separate rooms.
Installations must be from cartons with the same production lot numbers.

.3 Loose Lay (floating) Installation (LVT/P)

Prior to installation: Ensure all sub-floor surfaces conform to the flooring manufacturers requirements for flatness, temperature, moisture, contaminants removal, concrete surface profile, surface porosity, compressive strength and as detailed in 1. General Requirements .3 'Acceptable Substrates and Conditions of this section.
A 6mm (.24") expansion gap must be left against walls and other fixed components such as transitions, thresholds/doorways, door frames, pipes, etc. all door jambs and casings must be undercut.
Determine the direction that the flooring will run. Typically for rectangular plank / tile products, the flooring runs the length of the room, however, personal preference may determine flooring direction.
In accordance with the manufacturers guidelines only - Spot glue or use double-sided tape to secure planks / tiles that will be placed around the perimeter of the room. Apply a small amount of adhesive (per manufacturer) or tape, to your first tile and position at the starting point.
Ensure that each plank fit “tightly” together, the planks should not be forced into place.
Lay a complete row of planks and cut the last plank with the cut edge to fit against the opposite wall, allowing for a 6mm (.24") expansion gap, the planks should not be forced into place. Note: Some manufacturers call for no expansion gaps, always check installation guides for the specified product.
For best visual effect and dimensional stability, always stagger the planks from row to row with a minimum 20cm (8") offset.
Loose lay installations require a transition trim at all thresholds/doorways.
Installations must be from cartons with the same production lot numbers.

NOTE: For large rooms or floor plans with long runs (width or length of flooring product), expansion joints must be installed in accordance with manufacturers installation instructions. Expansion joints shall be installed at doorways between separate rooms where required by manufacturers installation instructions.

.4 Installation of LVT/P over in-floor Radiant Heat systems

Ensure the flooring product is recommended for installation over hydronic or electric radiant heated floor systems before proceeding.
Ensure the installation method (glue down or floating) is approved by the flooring manufacturer.
For glue down application: Ensure the flooring adhesive is recommended for installation over hydronic or electric radiant heated floor systems before proceeding.
For glue down installation use an adhesive that is approved over hydronic radiant heated floors.
Concrete sub-floors must be cured for a minimum of 90 days before beginning the installation.
In floor heating pipes must be covered with a minimum of 1” of concrete.
Maximum allowable ambient temperature is 25° C (77F), or as recommended by the adhesive and flooring manufacturer.
The heating system must be fully operational at normal temperature for a minimum of 21 days prior to the flooring installation.
The heating system must be turned off 24 hours prior to the flooring installation and must remain off for 12 hours after the flooring installation.
Starting 12 hours after the completion of the flooring installation, gradually increase the temperature over a 7-day period at 2° C (36F) increments to the normal operating level.

In all cases, DO NOT proceed with installation until all unsatisfactory conditions have been corrected. Notify the Contractor in writing of all defects likely to impair finished work. Start of work implies acceptance of surfaces and conditions.

7 • INSTALLATION OF MOULDED (TEXTURED) RUBBER TILE / SLABS

.01 Install modules with joints straight in a true plane, butted with moderate contact and symmetrical with, and parallel to the axis of the room.

.02 Use only adhesives specified and approved by the particular manufacturer. Apply adhesives with suitable notched trowel to obtain recommended coverage. Clean any excess adhesive immediately.

.03 Patterns and contours of modules shall match and fit accurately to create uniform effects.

.04 Scribe and fit neatly where no base is specified.

.05 Roll floor as each section is installed using a clean roller weighing at least 45.3kg (100 lbs.).

.06 When using a two-component adhesive, follow manufacturers mixing and application instructions. Do not pressure fit tile joints and dry-fit fills along vertical surfaces before applying adhesive. Re-roll flooring and if necessary place weighs until a complete bond has been achieved. Maintain recommended temperature.

.07 In all instances, follow manufacturer's installation recommendations.

8 • INSTALLATION OF RUBBER RUNNER MATERIALS

.01 Scribe and fit materials accurately to abutting surfaces. Joining lengths must be neatly fitted and butted.

.02 Surface contours shall match and fit accurately where separate pieces are joined.

.03 Securely bond skirting to substrate. To ensure uniform adhesion, roll with clean roller.

.04 In all instances, follow manufacturer's installation recommendations.

9 • INSTALLATION OF STATIC CONTROL AND TILE AND SHEET FLOORING

.01 Install static control tile and sheet floor covering in areas specified in strict compliance with manufacturer's recommendations, including all other items required for a complete grounded installation conforming to the requirements of CAN/CGSB-81-GP-1M, ASTM F150, and all other applicable regulations.

.02 Do not apply a floor finish to the flooring or to any adjacent area within 1525 mm (60").

.03 Provision of building ground system and connection point for flooring shall be provided by a certified electrician. It is the responsibility of the static flooring installer to connect flooring to building ground system and that grounding method employed meets the applicable code requirements.

10 • INSTALLATION OF SLIP RESISTANT TILE AND SHEET FLOORING

Install slip resistant sheet or tile flooring in strict compliance with manufacturer's recommendations for specific type of flooring selected.
For general installation requirements refer to Installation of Resilient Sheet and Tile Flooring noted herein.
Installers must be fully qualified in all aspects of installation and seam finishing techniques.
Flat-Lay Installation:
1. Minimize joints by using full width rolls, wherever possible. Layout area with a minimum number of seams, follow manufacturer's recommendations in regard to "reverse or non-reverse lay" for best colour match.
2. Apply adhesive with suitable notched trowel to obtain recommended coverage. The type and quantity of adhesive must be in strict accordance to manufacturer's recommendations. Roll sheet goods as each strip is installed, and again when installation is complete.
3. Sheet goods shall be fitted tightly and neatly to doorways and other vertical surfaces where baseboard or top-set base is not specified.
4. Complete seams in accordance with trade practices and manufacturer's recommendations for the type of flooring specified. Heat weld seams in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations using matched or complimentary coloured "thread".
5. At floor drains and trenches install slip resistant flooring into clamping ring of floor drains or "down" into floor trench drains where applicable. Cutting and caulking of such flooring flush with floor drain trim or trench grate is not acceptable and flooring will be rejected.
Flash-Cove Installation:
1. Minimize joints by using full width rolls, wherever possible. Layout area with a minimum number of seams.
2. Install fillet strip (cove backing) to facilitate transition at intersection of wall and floor, height of flash cove base and top edge finish as specified. Top edge may also be finished with binder bar, e.g. metal or vinyl cap.
3. Install sheet floor covering in one continuous length to cover floor and base wherever possible. Roll flooring as each strip is installed, and again when installation is complete.
4. Cut, fit, join, and weld sheet flooring at exterior and interior corners in accordance with trade practices and manufacturer's recommendations to form integral base.
5. Install butterfly V-plugs at all outside corners and heat weld joints.
6. Apply adhesive as recommended by the adhesive and/or floor covering manufacturer.
7. Complete seams in accordance with trade practices and manufacturer's recommendations for the type flooring specified.
8. Heat-weld all seams in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations using matching or complimentary coloured "thread".
9. Apply recommended sealer at all exposed edges and open ends and around drains etc.

11 • INSTALLATION OF SPORTS FLOORING

Install tile and/or sheet floor covering in areas specified in strict compliance with manufacturer's recommendations. Installers must be fully qualified in all aspects of sports flooring installation and seam finishing.
For general installation recommendations, refer to Installation of Resilient Sheet as well as Resilient Tile Flooring requirements noted herein.
Game Equipment Floor Inserts: Floor sockets for game equipment such as volleyball, tennis and badminton net posts are typically provided with sports flooring. The installation details vary with the type of floor system installed and must be carefully coordinated with various trades before the installation of flooring commences.

12 • INSTALLATION OF STAIR FINISHES

Stringers or Skirting:
1. Install stringers before treads, nosing, and risers.
2. Accurately scribe and fit all skirting or stringers to shape of stair profile and to height specified.
3. Securely bond skirting to substrate in a straight line.
4. In all instances, follow manufacturer's installation recommendations.
Treads, Risers and Nosings:
1. Scribe treads, nosings, and risers to fit tightly to profile of stair components. Stair treads and nosings shall present flush surfaces with resilient floor covering material on landings
2. Contour of treads and nosing shall match and fit accurately where separate pieces are required between adjacent treads or nosings.
3. Securely bond stair materials to substrates in a straight true line.
4. Apply epoxy nose filler as directed.
5. For vinyl products, make installation adjustments as recommended by manufacturer.
(Figure 1 and 2 Below) Staircase mock-up with 1-piece resilient tread and riser stringer system, and a non-slip, tactile warning surface strip.

(Fig. 1) Stair case cross section mock up

(Fig 2)

12a • TACTILE STRIPS

Tactile strips are installed as a safety measure at the base or top of stair ways. There are different strips available to address this safety issue:

Warning Tiles: Provide additional safety and protection for users accessing buildings.. The knobbly surface warns users of an approaching change in level. These are usually installed in contrast to the surrounding flooring for visual enhancement.
Vibration: These strips made with ridges that are easily identified by a blind person moving a white stick across the strip.
Linear Tactile Strips: Designed for visually impaired people to help find their way with blind stick. The strip is made of deep channels that guide the blind people with their stick.

13 • INSTALLATION OF FEATURE STRIPS AND INSERTS

Cut to shapes, sizes and profiles as shown on drawings/specification.
Carefully scribe into positions of field material as shown in layout drawings

14 • INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES

Install protective edgings / reducer strips in strict accordance with manufacturer's written recommendations for type of flooring and substrate.
Install protective edging and reducer strip tightly against exposed edges of flooring and to abutting sides.
Securely bond to the sub-floor in a straight line.

15 • INSTALLATION OF BASES

Resilient Base:
1. Ensure that wall surfaces are free of defects, dust, and any other contaminates.
2. Install longest lengths where possible to keep number of joints at a minimum.
3. Install base straight and level, tight-fit to door frames and other projections, round top edge and bevel lip of base at flush door frames. Apply adhesive to achieve 100% coverage and set base tightly against the wall. Roll base.
4. Adjoining lengths shall be neatly fitted and butted to form uniform height.
5. Install one side of base to fit contour of inside corner, cope lip at 45 degrees of other side and neatly fit base-length to inside corner base. V-groove back of base to fit outside corners, apply contact adhesive to wall and back of base, and tightly wrap around the corner.
6. Note: If specified, install pre-moulded outside corners prior to length pieces, and neatly fit length pieces of base to pre-moulded corner pieces.

16 • CONSTRUCTION JOINTS

Construction joints represent stop and start points in the concrete pouring process. Flooring cover plates are required to finish flooring over sections of concrete that can move independently of one another. There are a number of terms used to describe different types of joints in concrete: Isolation, expansion, construction and control.

Expansion/Isolation joints: These joints separate or isolate the concrete from other parts of the building structure like walls, footings and columns.
Construction joints/Control joints: These joints are deliberately placed in newly poured concrete to ‘control’ anticipated cracking. Introducing a control joint ensures that cracks develop where anticipated.
Without proper cover plates resilient floor coverings can lift, separate and split.

17 • PROTECTION

Where resilient flooring is not pre-finished (e.g. linoleum), it shall be finished, after installation and before it is exposed to any traffic, with finish materials and methods as recommended by the flooring manufacturer.
Installed flooring shall be protected with heavy Kraft-paper or other suitable covering as recommended by the flooring manufacturer. Do not use non-breathable sheet or film that could cause condensation to form. This covering must be maintained throughout the remainder of construction period.
For heavy loads, areas where deliveries will be made and areas where construction work will continue, additional protection as recommended by the manufacturer shall be used to prevent compression, dragging and scratch related damage.
Newly installed commercial flooring should not be exposed to routine rolling load traffic (carts, litters, etc.) for at least 72 hours after installation to allow setting and drying of adhesives. If rolling loads cannot be avoided, protect the installation for 72 hours after installation by covering with wood panels.
The overall responsibility for the protection of all installed resilient flooring, from completion of work until the Owner's take-over, is the responsibility of the General Contractor. The flooring contractor will not be able to control the work or actions of on-site workers, or the actions of persons causing damage from setting-up or delivering equipment, furniture, or other items to the site.

18 • MAINTENANCE DATA

Maintenance data and cleaning and finishing instructions shall be provided by the manufacturer for each type of resilient floor covering installed and provided to the Owner.
For care and maintenance instructions see B05 - Cleaning and maintenance

END OF SECTION B04B