E06A - SPECIFICATION GUIDE 09 62 19 - LAMINATE

E06-1 General
E06-2 Products
E06-3 Execution
SPEC NOTES:
Refer to Part A16 - Specification Guides before using this specification.
  1. This specification has been prepared to assist design professionals in the preparation of a project or office master laminate flooring specification.
  2. This specification section assumes the project manual will contain complete Division 1 - General Requirements sections and close coordination with it is required. If the project manual does not contain these sections, additional information should be included under appropriate articles.
  3. This Section number (09 62 19) including Section references noted under Related Work Specified Elsewhere is based on the MasterFormat 2004 numbering system. The use of Section 09755 based on MasterFormat 1995 numbering is no longer applicable.
  4. This specification is directed to the (General) Contractor (or Construction Manager). Where there is no General Contractor substitute the term flooring contractor.
  5. Review all requirements noted herein and carefully choose those that meet project requirements. The Specifier must choose one item from a series of items surrounded with [ .. ] brackets such as [Contractor] [Construction Manager] [Consultant] and delete the remainder. Items surrounded with ( ) brackets are additional information / comments that should be left in the specification. Notes to the specifier and all other items not required contained herein must be deleted in project specifications.
  6. Adding or deleting items in this specification must be done with care and caution. The onus of doing so rests with the Specifier who must have a complete and thorough understanding of what is required. Where additional information must be added to this specification the Specifier must ensure that such information is not only accurate but also in accordance with NFCA requirements. Because of the above noted requirements NFCA strongly recommends that this specification be edited by a qualified specification writer (refer to Part A16 - Specification Guides, 1.02).
  7. This specification is not set-up with auto-numbering. Any changes (additions or deletions) therefore means that the specifier will have to re-number / re-space following items to suit.
  8. Revise header and footer to suit project requirements. As a suggestion insert project name particulars on left side of header and consultant name on bottom left and issue date on bottom right of the footer.
PART 1 • GENERAL
1.1 Description:
SPEC NOTES:
  1. This article (1.1) is not intended to scope laminate flooring work but to serve as a general description. The onus of defining the extent of this section of Work remains with the General Contractor, who will ensure that the area / scope of responsibility of any particular Subcontractor / supplier is set out in full detail when awarding the contract for laminate flooring work. The extent of this section of Work is also governed by the limits of local trade agreements and conditions. This article should be used in conjunction with Related Work.
  2. Subfloor preparation work is not included under this section, except as noted in the Part E04A - Installation Guide - Scope of Work. If extended preparation work is required, this must be specified and a Separate Bid used or a Separate Price requested for this work as necessary. Refer to Part A12 - Substrate Preparation, Part A13 - Patching and Filling, and Part A16 - Specification Guides.
  3. Existing flooring to be removed is normally included in demolition work by the General Contractor (in Division 02). If its removal is the only demolition work, removal requirements could be included herein as an additional cost. Refer to Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions and Part E04A - Scope of Work.
  4. Labour requirements for the removal of asbestos-containing flooring materials and adhesives and/or any other hazardous flooring material must be Bid under a separate contract prior to the start of any new floor covering work. (Refer to Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions and Part F04A - Installation Guide - Scope of Work).
  1. Section Includes: All labour, materials, equipment, and services to fabricate, supply, and install laminate flooring to areas noted on the drawings and as specified herein.
  2. The work shall also include:
    1. [vapour barrier].
    2. [wood panel underalyment]
    3. resilient / acoustical underlayment.
    4. associated mouldings, trim and accessories such transitions to other flooring materials] [and thresholds at entries].
    5. [wood base (and quarter round if required)] [resilient base].
    6. [matching wood stair components (treads and risers) including laminate wrapped nosings conforming to Code].
    7. system sealant.
    8. adhesives and fastenings.
    9. maintenance materials and removal of remnants.
  3. The following shall be supplied by others:
    1. acceptable substrate surfaces.
    2. testing for moisture and alkalinity unless otherwise noted herein.
    3. threshold at entries in accordance with the requirements of Section 08 70 00.
  4. Provide for the following Separate, Alternative, and Unit Pricing and note same on the Bid Form:
    1. Separate Price 096219-S1 for addition of laminate flooring to Room [ add room name(s) and number(s) ] in lieu of flooring type as noted on Finish Schedule.
  5. This Section along with the drawings forms part of the Contract and is to be read, interpreted, and coordinated with all other parts.
  6. Division 00 - Procurement and Contracting Requirements and Division 01 - General Requirements form an integral part of this Section of Work.
  7. Related Work Specified Elsewhere: Related work includes but is not necessarily limited to the following:
Section 02 40 00 Demolition / Alterations (removal / disposal of existing floor finishes)
Section 02 42 10 Existing Flooring Removal (for flooring Contracts only)
Section 02 82 00 Facility Remediation (hazardous material removal)
Section 03 30 00 Cast-in-Place Concrete (substrates including topping and finishes)
Section 03 54 15 Cementitious Underlayment (for levelling)
Section 06 10 00 Rough Carpentry (subfloor framing and sheathing)
Section 06 20 00 Finish Carpentry (floor underlayment)
Section 06 40 00 Architectural Woodwork (bases, stair posts and railings)
Section 07 92 00 Caulking and Sealants Section 08 70 00 Hardware (thresholds by others)
Section 09 30 00 Tiling (transitions to laminate flooring)
Section 09 62 23 Bamboo Flooring (transitions to laminate flooring)
Section 09 62 29 Cork Flooring (transitions to laminate flooring)
Section 09 64 00 Hardwood Flooring (transitions to laminate flooring)
Section 09 65 00 Resilient Flooring (bases and transitions to laminate flooring)
Section 09 68 00 Carpet Flooring (transitions to laminate flooring)
Section 12 35 30 Residential Casework (millwork base)
Division 22 Mechanical (floor drains, trenches, clean-outs, etc.)
Division 23 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (floor grilles, etc.)
Division 26 Electrical (floor outlets, floor boxes, site grounding, etc.)
SPEC NOTE: This lists work directly related to this section but not to be included as part of this section. Delete, revise, or add to example sections listed below as required. This is not a comprehensive list. Refer to CSC MasterFormat 2004 for additional Sections that may be related and amend as required. Coordinate items with other Sections of Work in the Project Manual.
1.2 Reference Standards:
  1. The latest edition of the Floor Covering Reference Manual issued by the National Floor Covering Association of Canada (NFCA) shall govern all materials and workmanship. Whenever reference is made within this specification to NFCA requirements it shall mean, as a minimum, those standards and requirements noted in the NFCA Reference Manual.
  2. The latest applicable edition of the following additional reference standards and codes shall also govern all materials and installation work specified herein as applicable:
SPEC NOTE: Select appropriate standards and delete all others. Add other applicable consensus standards required which may include those dealing with indoor air quality, etc. Ensure that all standards are current and applicable before including.

  • ANSI/NALFA LF-01, Laminate Flooring Standards.
  • EN 13329, Laminate floor coverings - Specifications, requirements, and test methods.
  • CAN/ULC-S102.2, Standard Method of Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor Covering and Miscellaneous Materials and Assemblies.
  • ASTM E90, Standard Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements.
  • ASTM E492, Standard Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS).
1.3 Quality Assurance
  1. All preparation, materials, and workmanship shall be in strict accordance with NFCA requirements and material manufacturer's written recommendations and detail requirements for conditions of work that apply and guarantee / warranty periods noted herein.
  2. Any preparation, materials, and workmanship that does not meet NFCA requirements shall be repaired or replaced in accordance with Quality Assurance requirements at no additional cost to the Owner.
  3. The flooring contractor shall be recommended by the manufacturer / supplier as qualified to install laminate flooring materials and must have a minimum of three (3) years local experience and have successfully completed a minimum of five (5) projects with the same or similar materials and quantities and complexity as this project. If requested provide a list of similar flooring projects completed within the last two (2) years.
  4. For Commercial Projects - Only persons who are Trade Qualified or Product Qualified in accordance with NFCA Part A05 requirements shall be engaged in the installation of laminate flooring. Include the following if the project is under union jurisdiction [Apprentices may be employed provided they work at all times under the direct supervision of a Trade Qualified person. The ratio of apprentices to journey persons employed on site must not exceed the ratio outlined by local trade regulations.]
SPEC NOTE: Use the following (1.4) where the Quality Assurance Program is available from the Provincial Flooring Covering Association or other designated Quality Assurance provider in the area of this work. Refer to Part A05.
1.4 inspection Requirements:
  1. All flooring work shall be reviewed in strict accordance with NFCA Quality Assurance (QA) Program requirements by a qualified (i.e. QA Program accredited) Inspection Agency assigned by the Accredited Quality Assurance (AQA) Provider. Only Inspectors who have been approved under the Quality Assurance Program shall be assigned. See PART A04 Quality Assurance Program for details.
  2. The appointed QA inspector shall notify the flooring contactor in writing of any substrate defects and potential problems that may affect the installation of flooring materials prior to commencement of work.
  3. Fully cooperate with QA inspector at all times in the performance of his/her duties when inspecting on-site areas and substrate surfaces scheduled to receive laminate flooring.
  4. The cost of QA reviews including the QA maintenance Bond shall be either:
    1. Paid for directly by the building owner.
    2. Included in the cost (bid) for this work by the flooring contractor.
1.5 Testing Requirements:
SPEC NOTES:

  1. Refer to Part A11 - Substrate Testing information and requirements.
  2. Verify specific vapour emission and alkalinity requirements with laminate flooring manufacturer and amend specification requirements accordingly if lower limits are required. Note however that NFCA minimum ratings must be maintained.
  3. Any laminate flooring installation on substrate surfaces with a higher alkalinity rating (i.e. having a pH rating over 7) may result in underlayment failure.
  4. Where there is no General Contractor the flooring contractor shall provide and pay for such testing at an additional cost to the work. Refer to Part E04A - Installation Guide - Scope of Work. Where this is the case delete 1.5.2 accordingly.
  1.  Moisture and alkalinity tests shall be conducted by an independent third party testing agency using testing methods and devices in accordance with NFCA requirements and laminate floor covering manufacturer's recommendations.
  2. It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to provide and pay for such testing in a timely manner.
  3. The final test results must be in compliance with minimum NFCA requirements, laminate flooring, cementitious underlayment and adhesive manufacturer's recommendations, and unless otherwise permitted by the floor covering material manufacturers [and approved by the NFCA Quality Assurance Inspector]: 
    1. RH In-Situ Probe test results, conducted according to ASTM F-2170, shall not exceed 85%
    2. Anhydrous Calcium Chloride test results, conducted according to ASTM F-1869, shall not exceed an MVER of 3 lbs./ 1000 ft² over a twenty-four (24) hour period.
    3. alkalinity results shall not exceed a maximum pH rating of 7.
  4. Check substrate surfaces for level tolerances to ensure they are within NFCA requirements. These shall also be verified by the QA Inspector before commencement of flooring installation. Refer to 1.10 for requirements.
  5. Do not install flooring materials until testing results indicate that all substrate surfaces are acceptable for covering. Report any unsatisfactory conditions to the General Contractor.
1.6 Environmental and Safety Requirements:
  1. Ensure that all materials, including adhesives, sealants, and other accessory products, are environmentally safe and are not prohibited by any applicable laws, regulations, bylaws, ordinances or orders of any government authority.
  2. Ensure that all employees are fully informed and comply, at all times with Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) requirements. Such compliance shall include but not be limited to:
    1. Training of staff in the proper handling and storage of such materials.
    2. Furnishing and use of workplace Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and labels for such materials.
  3. LEEDS and environmental sustainability / recyclability of flooring materials:
    1. Flooring materials shall be manufactured locally or be from a local distribution source.
    2. Flooring materials used shall contain natural products or materials.
    3. Flooring materials used must [contain a minimum recycled material content of [Insert recycled content] [be 100% recyclable].
    4. Flooring materials including any adhesives and sealants used shall be low VOC materials and shall be conditioned on site to reduce off-gassing.
1.7 Pre-Installation Site Meeting:
  1. Before commencement of work on site, the [General Contractor,] [Construction Manager,] laminate flooring Subcontractor, flooring manufacturer's representative, and the [Consultant] [Owner] shall meet to discuss the following items:
  1. Where applicable, removal and disposal of existing floor covering, adhesives and contaminants.
  2. Review of substrate requirements and conditions including substrate finish and level tolerances.
  3. Substrate testing for moisture and alkalinity and provision of written results.
  4. Other testing requirements such as Bond (Pull) Testing, Porosity, surface compressive strength (psi), concrete surface profile (CSP), existing sub-floor surface requirements.
  5. Confirmation of all floor covering materials, i.e., types, patterns / colours and miscellaneous related materials and Mock up.
  6. Scheduling of all flooring work, including material deliveries, handling, storage, conditioning, and staging of work.
  7. Installation requirements, including heating, ventilation, condition and preparation of acceptable substrates, work space lighting and protection of completed work.
  8. Review of details, including, but not limited to (when applicable) seaming, bases, correct drywall finish for cove former, corners, interfaces with adjacent materials, all expansion and movement joints, floor access hatches (where applicable), and overlap vent/grill requirements.
  9. Floor pattern and direction and finishing requirements.
  10. Inspection procedures and reports. (Including timing of the four reports for multi-phase projects).
  11. Flooring contractor requirements:
    1. Provision of project flooring specifications and applicable drawings.
    2. A schedule of materials intended for use on the project and any subsequent addenda.
    3. Changes approved by the Specifying Authority, if any, shall be provided to the QA Inspector as approval is secured.
    4. Provision of a list of names and qualifications of installers prior to commencement of work.
    5. Provision of Consent of Surety (by the flooring contractor) for a 2 year 100% Maintenance Bond.
    6. Notification of conditions that do not meet manufacturer and or NFCA standards.
    7. Notify the QA Inspector a minimum of five (5) full working days prior to the start of the floor covering work and the same for subsequent site meetings.
  12. Manufacturers to provide maintenance materials and data requirements for cleaning, treatment and maintenance for each type of flooring installed.
  13. Keep minutes of meeting including responsibilities of various parties and deviations from specifications and installation instructions and distribute minutes to attendees within 48 hours
1.8 Mock-Up: [at Consultant / Owner request]
SPEC NOTE: Use a mock-up on site only if the nature of the project demands such, i.e., for complicated layouts / seaming, to review pattern matching, for quality assurance, etc.

  1. Install a minimum 1 m² (10 ft²) mock-up of each type of laminate flooring pattern and installation method on site to extent and location pre-approved by the [Contractor] [Construction Manager] [Consultant] for review and approval before proceeding with installation of laminate flooring

  2. Mock-up may be part of the work and if approved shall be maintained as a control sample of acceptable material and workmanship for remainder of laminate flooring installation 
1.9 Product Delivery, Handling, and Storage: 
  1. Handle and protect laminate flooring during fabrication, transportation, storage, and installation by means and methods recommended by the manufacturer and in accordance with minimum NFCA requirements so as to prevent damage, breakage, chipping, splitting, staining, or other disfigurement.
  2. Packing and protective materials shall be of a type that will not cause damage, staining or other disfigurement to laminate.
  3. Ensure that sufficient space with adequate heating and security is provided to store materials, tools, and equipment.
  4. Deliver and store laminate flooring materials in original unopened containers with manufacturer's labels and seals intact.
  5. Store materials, including adhesives, in strict accordance with manufacturers written requirements in a secure, dry space adequately protected from damage, theft and the elements and within temperature and humidity ranges recommended by product manufacturers. 
1.10 Installation Requirements:
  1. Work under this Section shall be limited to that indicated under the scope of work of this trade including the correction and filling of minor imperfections and irregularities with a non-shrinking, latex-based, patching / levelling compound and sanding it smooth.
  2. It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to provide conditions acceptable for the installation of floor covering materials. This shall include the provision of floor levels, finish tolerances, and conditions in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and minimum requirements of NFCA Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions including the following:

    • Substrate surfaces within level tolerances noted in NFCA Reference Manual Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions. Where this tolerance is exceeded the substrate surface shall be rectified by the Contractor by using a self-levelling cementitious topping before work of this section proceeds
    • Concrete substrates machine trowelled to a smooth level surface that are free of all marks, imperfections or conditions that will telegraph through or damage installed flooring materials
    • Grinding or sanding of ridges, undulations, projections and areas of carbonation and scaling and filling and levelling of expansion joints, cracks, grooves and other irregularities
    • Clean, dry substrate surfaces free of contaminants detrimental to flooring installation (e.g. paint, varnish, oils, release agents, waxes, sealers, and curing and hardening compounds not compatible with adhesives employed, if flooring is glued down). Surfaces shall be broom cleane
    • Removal of existing flooring material including adhesive where applicable.
    • Environmental conditions prior to and immediately after flooring installation meeting the following criteria.  
  • heating, air conditioning and humidity control facilities in operation.
  • substrate moisture content and alkalinity level within manufacturer's requirements. New concrete and suspect existing concrete surfaces shall be tested in accordance with NFCA requirements by an independent testing agency in a timely manner arranged by the Contractor with costs paid for by the Owner.
  • Woodsubstrates: An electronic pin moisture meter set to the correct wood species type and reading no more than 12% moisture content is a general guide. In all cases ensure the substrate meets the manufacturers requirements for subfloor moisture content before proceeding with installation. ​
  • environment and substrate temperatures within manufacturer's requirements. This includes that the temperature of all materials to be installed and areas to receive flooring is maintained at a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and maximum of 30°C (85°F) for at least 48 hours prior to, during, and after installation, and that a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) is maintained thereafter.
  • humidity range within manufacturer's requirements and as a minimum between 35% and 55% assuming an 18°C to 25°C temperature. If humidity is not within this range, postpone installation until conditions are suitable.
  • areas to receive flooring shall be vented 24 to 48 hours prior to installation using fresh circulating air and adequate ventilation (for noxious fumes) shall be provided in accordance with WHMIS and WCB requirements.
  • areas to receive flooring shall be provided with adequate illumination (minimum of 538 lux at floor level) in accordance with WCB requirements.
SPEC NOTE: The level tolerance for laminate flooring is ± 3 mm (1/8") in 3000 mm (120") or FL30 and FF20. To ensure that this requirement is achieved this tolerance must be included in the concrete specification and/or a separate cementitious topping specification must be included. Refer to Part A10 - Acceptable Conditions, Part B04B - Installation Guide, and Part AA1 - Cementitious Underlayment Guide Specification for information.
Where these minimum requirements are not met they shall be rectified by the Contractor before work of this section proceeds.
  1. The final type and condition of each substrate shall be in complete accordance with NFCA requirements and the flooring material manufacturer's installation recommendations. Note that carpet flooring shall be removed.
  2. Condition all flooring materials including adhesives on site to avoid potential expansion, contraction, and bonding problems.
  3. Consult with and coordinate flooring work and make provisions for all trades in advance to avoid future repairs. Refer to other flooring Sections for interface details and base type where applicable.
  4. Install flooring materials only after all other trade work, especially gypsum board and painting, has been completed and all overhead mechanical and lighting work, and other wall-mounted equipment has been installed.
  5. 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.
  6. Restrict traffic by trades and others until work is completed and until adhesive, where used, has fully cured.
1.11 Submittals
  1. All submittals shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 01 30 00.
  2.  If requested, submit a list of projects completed within the last 5 years.
  3. Submit manufacturer's technical literature and specification clearly indicating materials and fabrication, handling and storage requirements, installation, and maintenance data, and complete product pattern and colour range samples for each type of laminate flooring specified for Consultant's review and selection.
  4. If requested, submit minimum 300 mm (12") long samples of selected laminate flooring, clearly identified by manufacturer's name, product, and the name of the project.
  5. [Submit shop drawings] [written indication] clearly indicating flooring patterns / layout, expansion, edge, corner, and base details, floor underlayment materials, type of laminate flooring, and installation requirements for each location before commencing work. 
SPEC NOTE: Detailed shop drawings are not usually required for small / residential installations. However, some indication as to flooring pattern / arrangement must be provided before installation work.

1.12 Maintenance Data and Materials:
  1. At project completion, of work provide flooring manufacturer's maintenance, cleaning, and care data for each type of laminate flooring installed for incorporation into [each unit] Owner's maintenance manual.
  2. At project completion, provide extra materials from same production run of products installed, packaged with protective covering, and labelled describing contents for Owner's later use in maintenance in following amounts
    • one percent (1%) of total amount of each type, pattern, and colour of laminate flooring installed.
    • minimum 12 lineal feet of each type, profile, and colour of base installed.
1.13 Maintenance Bond
  1. Furnish a NFCA Quality Assurance Two (2) year 100% Maintenance Bond on completion of work. The Maintenance Bond shall warrant that the work has been performed in accordance with applicable requirements of the NFCA Quality Assurance Program. The cost of this Maintenance Bond shall be included in this Bid.
  2. Provide a facsimile of the Maintenance Bond together with written proof of ability to furnish same at no cost to the Owner with Bid.
1.14 Warranties
  1. Provide the following warranties beyond date of Substantial Performance in writing as well as any details of other warranties offered that exceed noted minimum requirements:
    1. A joint and several written one (1) year warranty, signed by manufacturer and installer agreeing to repair or replace laminate flooring that fails in materials, fabrication, or installation.
    2. A manufacturer's written ten (10) year warranty against wear, staining, and fading.
SPEC NOTE: Review and amend guaranty / warranty requirements in accordance with manufacturer's requirements.
2 • PRODUCTS
2.1 General
  1. All materials shall be first quality [commercial] [residential] grade laminate flooring as specified herein from a single source manufacturer / supplier.
  2. All work shall be based on the use of specified materials. Other flooring and accessory materials may be approved providing they meet or exceed the requirements specified herein and are pre-approved before Bid Closing. Refer to submittal requirements.
2.2 Installation Materials:
  1. Panel Underlayment: G1S sanded exterior grade material pre-approved by the material manufacturer for use as an underlayment for resilient flooring products [by others in accordance with requirements of Section 06 20 00] [and as recommended by laminate flooring manufacturer for installation under laminate flooring and over sheathing or existing flooring.
  2. Substrate Filler: smooth trowelling, fast setting, non-shrinking, non-cracking, pre-mixed filler with Portland cement and polymeric modifiers (white latex) and a minimum compressive strength of 20 MPa (2900 psi) at 28 days (or 27.6 MPa (4000 psi) where laminate is glued directly to substrate) for patching / filling / levelling substrates, with type to suit substrate conditions as recommended by adhesive / laminate flooring manufacturer.
  3. Substrate Primers and Sealers: as recommended by laminate flooring manufacturer.
  4. Moisture Retarder Membrane: 0.15 mm (6 mil) thick polyethylene film to CAN/CGSB-51.34, full length of slab area x maximum standard width to reduce joints with membrane tape.
  5. Moisture Retarder Tape: as recommended by moisture barrier manufacturer.
  6. Resilient / Acoustical Underlayment: moisture resistant 3 to 6 mm (1/8" to 1/4") thick closed multi-cell polyethylene resilient sheet foam or other type with density and permeability as recommended or approved by laminate flooring manufacturer.
  7. Underlayment Tape: 50 mm (2") wide polyethylene or other type pre-approved by underlayment manufacturer. 
  8. Adhesive for Glued Joints: premixed, water-based type provided by laminate flooring manufacturer used to glue planks and seal cut edges of flooring.
  9. Adhesive for Glued-Down Components: (stair treads and risers as recommended by laminate manufacturer) high strength premium grade low VOC (solvent-free), alkaline and water resistant type specially formulated for glue-down application of laminate flooring stair components (treads and risers) and to suit material and substrate types and conditions as recommended by both adhesive and laminate flooring manufacturers. Spread rates for adhesive shall be strictly adhered to.
  10. Fasteners: purpose made screws, nails, staples and machine driven fasteners for miscellaneous items of approved types and sizes as recommended by laminate flooring manufacturer for substrate and application method specified.
  11. Spacers / Expansion Joint Strips: cork or other resilient material for installation in voids at perimeter of flooring and other vertical interfaces, width to suit void.
  12. Sealant: silicone type in accordance with requirements of Section 07 90 00 and as recommended by laminate flooring manufacturer to seal gaps around flooring edges, metal door frames, and in areas where surface moisture may occur.
  13. Touch-Up: filler / dye / stain as recommended, supplied and/or pre-approved by laminate flooring supplier
2.3 Laminate Flooring
SPEC NOTE: Select appropriate type of laminate flooring and delete all others.
  1. Laminate Flooring: [8 mm (0.330")] [10 mm (3/8")] thick composite panels consisting of laminate surfacing and balancing backer bonded to [moisture resistant] [high density fibreboard (HDF)] [medium density fibreboard (MDF)] [particle board] core conforming to [ANSI/NALFA LF-01] [EN 13329] complete with tongue and groove side joints and [bevelled [two] [four] side] [square] edges. Décor layer to be [wood][ceramic][stone] with pattern, texture, and colour as selected by the [Owner][Consultant] from manufacturer's complete range.
    1. Laminate Plank Flooring: nominal [200 mm (8")] [300 mm (12")] wide x [1180 mm (46.5") long].
    2. Laminate Parquet Tile Flooring: nominal [390 mm (15")] square.
  2. Performance Criteria: Laminate flooring shall conform to the following minimum NALFA requirements
  1. Usage rating: [residential] [light commercial] [commercial]
  2. Minimum static load resistance rating: (to NALFA LF-01 3.1) [6 MPa (870 psi) for residential / light commercial floors] [8 MPa (1160 psi) for commercial floors].
  3. Maximum thickness swell rating: (to NALFA LF-01 3.2) [20% for residential floors] [16% for light commercial / commercial floors].
  4. Light resistance: (to NALFA LF-01 3.3) No effect.
  5. Cleanability / stain resistance rating: (to NALFA LF-01 3.4) 20 / No effect.
  6. Impact rating: (to NALFA LF-01 3.5 using large diameter ball) [800 mm (31.5") for residential floors] [1000 mm (39.4") for light commercial floors] [1400 mm (55.1") for commercial floors].
  7. Impact rating: (to NALFA LF-01 3.6 using small diameter ball): [200 mm (7.9") for residential floors] [200 mm (7.9") for light commercial floors] [500 mm (19.7") for commercial floors].
  8. Wear resistance: (to NALFA LF-01 3.7) [1800 cycles for residential floors] [2500 cycles for light commercial floors] [4000 cycles for commercial floors].
  9. Maximum dimensional tolerance: (to NALFA LF-01 3.8 for all usage levels) length: 0.50 mm (0.020"), width: 0.20 mm (0.008"), thickness: 0.50 mm (0.020"), squareness: 0.20 mm (0.008"), straightness: 0.30 mm (0.012")
  10. Castor chair resistance: (to NALFA LF-01 3.9) 25,000 cycles with no effect
  11. Smoke density: (to ASTM E662) ≤450.
  12. Critical radiant flux: (to ASTM E648) Type 1 or >1.08.
  13. Wet and dry slip resistance: (to ASTM C1028)
    1. As a guide, the average slip resistant ratings for a floor surface are from 0.50 to 0.60 for flat floors and 0.80 for ramps
SPEC NOTE: 11 to 14 are additional North American values that may be included (note revise numbering sequence to suit):
2.4 Laminate Stair Materials
SPEC NOTE: Verify if overlapping nosings meet code requirements before specifying.
  1. Treads: one-piece laminate flooring complete with laminate wrapped bullnose nosing by full tread width for contained (boxed) stairways.
  2. Nosings: separate [overlapping wood] [flush laminate wrapped bullnose] [extruded aluminum] nosing for finish flooring edge at the top of stairs. Note that overlapping nosing is secured to substrate and not to laminate floor so that the floor is free to move.
  3. Risers: matching one-piece laminate by full tread width x riser height required.
  4. Stringers: one-piece [painted][stained] wood [to match laminate] full depth plus base height.
  5. Balusters, Posts, and Railings: by others in accordance with requirements of Section 06 40 00
2.5 Accessories and Trims
  1. Mouldings and Trim: [factory laminate wrapped MDF or HDF material] [wood of species, grade, and finish] to match laminate flooring] [pre-finished metal] as selected by the [Owner] [Consultant] in full widths, lengths, and profiles to suit conditions as required.
    1. Wall Base: nominal [65 mm (2 1/2")] [100 mm (4")] [133 mm (6") high x [19 mm (3/4")] [13 mm (1/2")] thick [laminate wrapped] [matching wood] materia
    2. Quarter Round: 19 mm (3/4") laminate wrapped to cover gap at walls and other fixed vertical surfaces.
    3. T-Moulding: [laminate wrapped wood] [extruded [bronze] [aluminum] with [mill] [anodized] finish and plain surface] used in doorways or thresholds to join two areas of laminate flooring. 
    4. Protective Edgings / End Caps: [extruded [bronze] [aluminum] with [mill] [anodized] finish and plain surface] used at end of laminate at exterior doorways. 
    5. Reducer Strips: tapered [laminate wrapped wood] [extruded [bronze] [aluminum] with [mill] [anodized] finish and plain surface] to join laminate flooring to other flooring materials of varying heights.
  2. Thresholds: [pre-finished hardwood] [laminate wrapped wood] matching laminate flooring] [extruded [bronze] [aluminum] with [mill] [anodized] finish and plain surface], minimum [50 mm (2")] wide x lengths required with flat / barrier free accessible profile.
  3. Floor Vents and Grilles: fixed or adjustable [prefinished metal] [matching wood] floor grille for hot and cold air circulation complete with flange [as supplied by mechanical trade or by Owner].
2.7 Pre-Approved Materials / Systems
  1. The following laminate flooring manufacturers have been pre-approved subject to meeting specification requirements.
SPEC NOTE: Where different laminate flooring systems are used on the same project, define each in the specification and differentiate each on drawings and Finish Schedule by number / name using the following example:
  • Type LF1 - Typical laminate flooring.
  • Type LF2 - Laminate flooring in [specify area]
3 • EXECUTION

.01 Examination:

  • Review all conditions to ensure substrate conditions and levels, environmental conditions and work by other trades is acceptable prior to commencing work including moisture content. Refer to Part 1 installation requirements noted herein.

  • Ensure concrete is tested for moisture and alkalinity and that moisture and alkalinity levels are in accordance with manufacturer and NFPA requirements.

  • Ensure plywood subfloor installation meets minimum NFCA requirements.

  • Check substrate levels with a metal straight edge and ensure that they are free from all bumps, ridges, and other imperfections detrimental to flooring installation. Grinding of concrete substrates and the addition of a cementitious self-levelling underlayment shall be by others in accordance with NFCA requirements. Such work by the flooring contractor shall be defined as additional work at additional cost.

.02 Preparation:

  • Fill low spots, cracks, joints and holes with substrate filler as required to limits defined by NFCA to correct substrate imperfections.

  • Remove paint, varnish, oils, and other compounds not compatible with flooring underlayment.

  • Seal and prime substrates in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.

  • Sand wood substrates smooth and vacuum clean as required, providing a suitable smooth surface for laminate flooring installation.

.03 Installation of Flooring Underlayment:

SPEC NOTE:
Select appropriate material:

  • Install [sheathing paper] [moisture barrier] over concrete slabs below or on-grade lapping joints 150 mm (6") and seal with tape.

  • OR

    Install [acoustical] [resilient] underlayment over acceptable substrate surfaces [including stair treads] in strict accordance with flooring manufacturers written requirements with edges butted together (not overlapped) and with continuously taped seams.

.04 Installation of Laminate Flooring:

  • Verify strip flooring direction with [Consultant] [Owner] before starting installation.

  • Install laminate flooring in strict accordance with flooring manufacturer's directions and to minimum NFCA requirements to areas and patterns scheduled and detailed on [drawings] [pre-approved shop drawings] and Finish Schedules.

  • Provide expansion void at perimeter vertical interfaces (walls, millwork, adjacent floor finishes, and at openings as required) of width and in accordance with flooring manufacturer's recommendations and to minimum NFCA requirements using temporary blocking if and as required and expansion material as recommended by flooring manufacturer.

  • Install laminate flooring planks from right to left, [free floating] over [panel underlayment and] resilient underlayment] with [mechanically] [glue] fastened tongue and groove joints].

  • Unless otherwise indicated, install flooring symmetrically about room centre line and parallel to long dimension of room [and corridor], continuous through doorways, and cut to fit all projections, with all joints straight, true to plane, and with minimum half plank width at perimeters. Stagger end joint locations a minimum of 250 to 300 mm (10 to 12") and seal all cut ends as recommended by manufacturer.

  • When required by manufacturer install specified adhesive to laminate joints in strict accordance with manufacturer's written instructions.

  • SPEC NOTE:
    Verify if adhesive in joints is part of manufacturer's requirements.

    • Drill or cut holes for flooring penetrations in strict accordance with manufacturers requirements and seal perimeters of wet areas, i.e., in expansion gap under stoves, fridges, and dishwashers with a clear silicone sealant.

    • At door frames:

    • Wood frames: Undercut frames and allow for a minimum expansion clearance of 6 mm (1/4").

    • Metal frames: Cut flooring to fit around frames - Do not undercut frames. Provide 5 mm (3/16") expansion space and fill with colour-matched perimeter sealant.

.05 Installation of Bases and Trims:

  • VInstall wood base (and quarter round if required) over expansion void at perimeter of flooring secured to vertical interfaces using nails in accordance with NFCA requirements. Ensure base does not contact floor surface and is not secured to it.

  • Install protective edgings / reducer strips and laminate thresholds to all exposed laminate flooring edges and interfaces with other flooring materials as required to suit conditions, fixed as recommended by the manufacturer and to NFCA requirements.

  • Install metal thresholds at openings and where indicated and attached to adjacent rigid floor surface. Where thresholds cover an expansion space, ensure that they are fastened to the substrate and not to laminate flooring, to allow flooring to move (i.e., expand and contract) under the threshold.

.06 Installation of Stair Coverings:

  • Install laminate flooring to treads and riser faces fitted tightly to adjacent wall surfaces allowing for expansion as required.

  • Install specified wood base and stringers fitted tightly to horizontal and vertical stair surfaces and to wall surfaces without gaps or voids.

.07 Clean-Up:

  • On completion remove waste, vacuum clean, and inspect flooring installation for apparent defects and adjust as required. Such cleaning does not include final cleaning for Substantial Performance.

.08 Protection:

  • Avoid static loads on newly installed flooring until adhesives have thoroughly set.

  • Do not permit any traffic over installed flooring until site-finish coats have dried and cured (for a minimum period of seven (7) days unless otherwise specified by coating manufacturer.).

  • The overall responsibility for the protection of completed flooring to acceptance by the Owner shall be the responsibility of the General Contractor who shall reasonably prohibit all other work and traffic over flooring and provide a temporary breathable protective covering acceptable to the manufacturer. Do not use non-breathable sheet or film covering that could cause condensation to form.

  • Subsequently remove protective covering and dispose of same and make good defects to flooring installation caused by other trades.
END OF SECTION