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Coretec Plus is a type of luxury vinyl flooring that is known for its durability and water resistance, making it suitable for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and basements. The installation process is relatively straightforward and can often be done without professional assistance if you have a bit of DIY experience. As always, please refer to the official COREtec Installation Guidelines before attempting to install. This How To is just a general guideline and should not be taken as the final authority when installing. Hiring a professional installer is the best option when installing COREtec flooring. But for those who like to get your hands dirty, here’s a relative step-by-step guide on how to install Coretec Plus flooring:
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as some details may vary. Always ensure to keep safety as a priority when using tools like knives and saws.
Step 1:Prepare Your Subfloor: Coretec Plus can be installed over a variety of subfloors, including concrete, plywood, and even existing vinyl or tile flooring. The subfloor
should be flat, dry, clean, and structurally sound. Use a level to check for any uneven areas. If necessary, fill in any low spots with self-leveling compound and sand any high spots.
Step 2: Acclimate the Flooring: Store the unopened boxes of flooring in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours prior to installation. This allows the flooring to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity levels, which can help prevent warping and buckling after installation.
Step 3: Plan Your Layout: It’s generally recommended to install the planks parallel to the longest wall in the room. Measure the room and plan your layout so that the last row of planks will be at least 2 inches.
Step 4: Start the First Row: Starting in one corner of the room, place the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall. Use spacers to maintain an expansion gap of about 1/4 inch between the plank and the wall. This allows the floor to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity.
Step 5: Install the Second Plank: Align the short end of the next plank with the first one and drop it into place. You might need to use a tapping block and rubber mallet to snugly connect the planks.
Step 6: Continue the First Row: Continue installing planks in the first row, cutting the last plank to fit as necessary with a utility knife or table saw. Remember to keep the 1/4 inch expansion gap at the end of the row.
Step 7: Start the Second Row: Start the second row with a plank that’s cut in half (if the planks are less than 1 foot wide). This creates a staggered pattern, which increases the floor’s stability and gives it a more natural look.
Step 8: Install the Planks in the Second Row: Fit the long side of the first plank in the second row into the first plank of the first row at an angle, then lay it flat. Align the short end of the second plank in the row with the first one, and drop it into place. Use the tapping block and mallet to secure the planks.
Step 9: Continue the Installation: Repeat these steps, making sure to stagger the joints between planks in adjacent rows by at least 6 inches. Use a pull bar to install the planks in the last row.
Step 10: Finish the Installation: After all the planks have been installed, remove the spacers. Install baseboard molding or quarter-round molding along the perimeter of the room to cover the expansion gaps.
Along with this, there are some basics maintenance guidelines that should be implemented after installation that will keep your new COREtec Plus flooring looking as good as new. Always follow the official installation guidelines set forth on the COREtec website, www.coretecfloors.com. Though installing COREtec flooring yourself is an option, the best option is to hire a certified, licensed and insured installer. Total Value Flooring is not responsible for installs that are a result of these steps.
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