CALI Vinyl Laguna Flooring Installation Guide

CALI Vinyl Laguna Flooring

Product Usage Instructions

Pre-Installation

CALI Vinyl Laguna Floating Pre-Installation:

Before beginning installation, ensure you follow the P.A.C.E. checklist:

1. P – Prepare the Subfloor:
   • Make sure the subfloor is flat, level, clean, and free of debris.
   • Use 6mil plastic on concrete subfloors.
   • Ensure proper acclimation of the flooring material for at least 60 days.
2. A – Acclimate Flooring:
   • Acclimate the flooring for 24 hours in the installation area.
   • Keep the environment stable to prevent expansion issues.
3. C – Control Environment:
   • Leave at least a 3/8-inch expansion gap between flooring and all vertical objects.
   • Avoid installing heavy fixtures directly on the floating floor.
4. E – Expansion Gaps:
   • Use spacers and leave appropriate expansion gaps as needed.
   • Avoid blocking natural floor movement by restricting fixtures.

FAQ

Questions about CALI Vinyl Laguna Flooring

• Q: Where can I find additional installation materials?
  • A: Additional installation materials such as videos, illustrations, and more can be found at CALIFloors.com.
• Q: What is the recommended acclimation period for the flooring?
  • A: It is recommended to acclimate the flooring for at least 24 hours in the installation area to ensure stable environmental conditions.
• Q: How should I prepare the subfloor before installation?
  • A: Ensure the subfloor is flat, level, clean, and free of debris. Use 6mil plastic on concrete subfloors and allow the flooring material to acclimate for at least 60 days.

The Collection

Flooring System

Flooring Accessories

FLOATING CLICK-LOCK INSTALL GUIDE

CALI Vinyl Laguna Floating Pre-Installation

Before you begin installation, remember to P.A.C.E. yourself with the checklist below. Full installation instructions and maintenance guidelines can also be found online at CALIFloors.com

PACE: PREPARE THE SUBFLOOR

• Use 6mil Plastic on Concrete
  • Test the subfloor moisture content prior to installation and apply an appropriate moisture barrier such as CALI 6 mil Plastic or Titebond 531 over concrete, or CALI Complete which can be used over all subfloor types. Make sure the subfloor is flat, level,clean and free of debris. New concrete must be cured for at least 60 days.

PACE: ACCLIMATE FLOORING

• Acclimate Your Flooring For 24 Hours
  • Prior to installation, store planks at room temperature, unopened and in their original packaging. Acclimate the boxes of flooring as close to the installation area as possible, for 24 hours in normal living conditions.

PACE: CONTROL ENVIRONMENT

• Vinyl flooring can be used in areas ranging from 32°F to 113°F

PACE: EXPANSION GAPS

• Leave at least 3/8″ expansion spaces between flooring and ALL veritcal objects (walls, cabinets, pipes, etc.) Large flooring runs may require additional expansion space.
• Undercut door jams and casing to provide adequate expansion space. Do not screw or nail cabinetry or other permanent fixtures to a floating floor.

Pre-Installation

Prepare Job Site, Acclimation, Control Subfloor Moisture, Environmental Conditions.

Proper installation and maintenance are key elements in achieving best flooring results. It is the responsibility of the installer/owner to follow all guidelines provided by CALI for success. Please read through this document completely, additional installation materials such as videos, illustrations and more can also be found at CALIFloors.com.

Note: Flooring not used for its intended purpose will not be covered under warranty.

• Upon ordering of Vinyl floor materials consider adding an additional 5% to allow for cutting waste.
• CALI flooring is manufactured in accordance with accepted industry standards, which permit manufacturing deficiencies not to exceed 5%. If more than 5% of the material is unusable, do not install the flooring. Immediately contact the distributor/retailer from which the flooring was purchased. No claim will be accepted for materials with visible defects once they are installed. Installation of any material serves as acceptance of the material delivered.
• Installer/Owner assumes all responsibility to inspect all flooring before installation. Planks deemed unacceptable in appearance can be placed in closets, near walls or simply not be used. Pieces with glaring defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or not be used as use constitutes acceptance.
• It is the responsibility of the installer/homeowner to determine if the job site conditions, environmental conditions and sub-floor are acceptable for the installation of CALI Vinyl flooring. CALI does NOT warrant against failure resulting from or connected with subfloor, job site damage, or environmental deficiencies after installation. CALI makes no warranty or guarantee of the quality of the chosen installer’s work or of a particular installation performed by him or her. CALI disclaims all liability for any errors or improprieties in the installation of its products by an installer.
• Floor noise is normal and will vary from one installation type to the next. Occasional noise is due to structural movement and may relate to sub-floor type, flatness, deflection, and/or related to the fasteners, changes in environmental conditions, relative humidity and the amount of topside pressure applied to the flooring. For these reasons floor noise is not considered a product or manufacturer defect.
• During installation, it is the installer’s responsibility to document all jobsite conditions and measurements including the installation date, site relative humidity, temperature, and subfloor moisture content. For a complete list of points to address prior to installation, refer to ASTM F1482 − 21.
• Do not install flooring under permanent or fixed cabinetry.
• Never nail or screw anything through a FLOATED floor.

Transport, Storage, Acclimation

• Transport and store cartons in lay down, flat position.
• Stack boxes no more than 8 cartons (4ft.) high. Keep away from direct sunlight
• Room temperature and relative humidity must be consistent with year-round living conditions for at least 5 days prior to installation.
• Allow flooring to acclimate, unopened, in original packaging as close to the installation area as possible for at least 24 hours prior to installation.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Prior to installation, inspect planks in daylight for visible faults/damage. Check if subfloor/site conditions comply with the specifications described in these instructions. If you are not satisfied do not install, and contact your supplier. CALI is not responsible for flooring that is installed with visible defects.

Recommended Tools

• Tape measure
• Chalk line
• Utility knife
• Rubber mallet
• Miter saw
• Hammer
• Pencil
• 3/8″ spacers
• Table saw
• Pullbar
• Tapping block

Subfloor Requirements

General

• Floating floors can be laid on top of most hard surfaces (e.g. concrete, ceramics, wood)
• Soft subfloors (e.g. carpets) must be removed
• The subfloor must be level – Flat to 3/16” per 10-foot radius
• The subfloor must be clean = Thoroughly swept and free of all debris
• The subfloor must be dry

Even though CALI Vinyl Laguna is waterproof it is NOT considered a moisture barrier. CALI always recommends the use of a vapor barrier on plywood and a moisture barrier (like 6mil plastic) on concrete for above, at, and below grade installations.

Acceptable Subfloor Types

• CD Exposure 1 plywood (grade stamped US PS1-95)
• OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels
• Underlayment grade particleboard
• Concrete slab
• Existing wood
• Ceramic tile (must fill in grout lines with a compatible patch compound)
• Resilient tile and sheet vinyl

Acceptable Subloor thickness Requirements:

• Wood subfloors must be securely fastened. A best practice is to nail or screw every 6” along joists to avoid squeaking.
• If leveling is needed, sand down high spots and fill in low spots with a Portland based leveling compound.
• Quick Tip! If your plywood, OSB or particle board subfloor is reading higher than 13% MC it is advised to find and correct the source of moisture intrusion before continuing installation. CALI is not responsible for any damage caused by moisture intrusion.
• Concrete subfloors must be fully cured and at least 60 days old, preferably 90 days old. If leveling is needed, grind down high spots and level low spots with a Portland based leveling compound.
• Quick Tip! When laying 6 mil plastic it is always advised to overlap the seams at least 6” and cover all seams with duct tape.
• Slabs on or below grade must be free of hydrostatic pressure.
• Important: CALI Vinyl flooring is waterproof, however moisture intrusions from concrete hydrostatic pressure, flooding, or plumbing leaks, along with high levels of alkalinity, can affect the floor over time. Moisture can also be trapped below the flooring and create mold or mildew. The installer, not CALI, is responsible for making sure the concrete moisture and alkalinity are suitable prior to installing this floor.
• Ceramic Tile, resilient tile and sheet vinyl must be well-bonded to subfloor, in good condition, clean and level. We do not recommend sanding existing vinyl floors, as they may contain asbestos. We do recommend filling any grout lines or embossing with a compatible patch compound. Any damaged caused by skipping this step will not be covered by CALI.
• Crawlspaces must have a minimum of a 6-mil polyethylene sheeting covering any exposed earth. Crawl spaces must have adequate ventilation and a minimum of 18” of air space between the ground and the floor joist.

Moisture Barriers and Underlayments

Even though CALI Vinyl Legends is waterproof it is NOT considered a moisture barrier. CALI always requires the use of a moisture barrier such as CALI 6 Mil Plastic, CALI Complete or Titebond 531 over concrete subfloors. Test the subfloor moisture prior to installation and apply an appropriate moisture barrier based on the subfloor moisture content.

Note: Moisture barriers are not required on subfloors above habitable spaces (2nd, 3rd stories, etc).

While moisture won’t damage CALI Vinyl Laguna, moisture intrusions from concrete hydrostatic pressure, flooding, or plumbing leaks, along with high levels of alkalinity, can affect the floor over time. Moisture can also be trapped below the flooring and create mold or mildew resulting in an unhealthy indoor environment. The installer, not CALI is responsible for making sure the concrete moisture and alkalinity are suitable prior to installing this floor. If using a moisture barrier or underlayment not sold by CALI, check with the manufacturer to ensure it is approved for use with the specified floor type.

Underlayments over 2mm thick should not be used.

Note

• Damage caused by using a moisture barrier not provided by CALI is not covered under warranty.

Radiant Heat Systems

CALI Vinyl flooring is only recommended for use over radiant heat systems if the special requirements specified by the radiant heat manufacturer’s guidelines are met. Ensuring stable job site conditions, subfloor suitability, and proper acclimation are especially important when installing over a radiant heat system. It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure that the recommended environmental conditions are met for installation. Refer to your radiant heat system manufacturer to determine its compatibility with vinyl flooring, and to learn the specific requirements for installation.

For more detailed information about radiant heat systems, visit the Radiant Heat Professionals Alliance (RPA) at https://www.radiantprofessionalsalliance.org/.

• Because of the wide variety of systems on the market (Hydronic, embedded in concrete, electrical wire/coil, heating film/mat) each with its own features and applications it is recommended that the user consult with the radiant heating provider for best practices, installation methods and proper subfloors.
• With CALI Vinyl the floating installation method is the only method recommended for use with radiant heat systems.
• Radiant heat system must be turned on and in operation for at least one week before installation.
• The system must be turned down to 65°F and maintained 24 hours prior to installation.
• Once install is complete, turn system back on and slowly bring back up to normal operating temperature over a period 4-5 days. Increase the temperature in 5 degree increments to avoid overheating.
• Floor should never be heated over 85°F. Consult with your radiant heating system manufacturer to successfully limit the maximum temperature.
• Always remember that rugs placed over radiant heated flooring can increase the surface temperature in that area by 3°- 5°F degrees.
• Relative Humidity must be maintained between 20-80%.
• When turning off the radiant heat system it must be turned down slowly at a rate of 1.5° degrees per day. You should never just turn the system off.
• For additional information on radiant heating systems please refer to http://www.radiantpanelassociation.org

CALI Vinyl Laguna Floating Installation

Before laying: Measure the room at right angle to the direction of the planks. Planks in the final row should be at least 3 inches wide. Due to this rule, planks in the first row may need to be cut to smaller size. Shuffle planks in order to obtain a pleasant blend of shades. We recommend laying the planks along the longest, straight, exterior facing wall. You should never nail or screw planks to the subfloor.

• Floor should be installed from several cartons at the same time to ensure good color, shade and appearance. Expansion gaps: Even though CALI Vinyl Laguna will have very minimal expansion and contraction it is still required to leave 3/8” expansion space around the perimeter as well as all fixed objects (tile, fireplace, cabinets). If the installation area exceeds 50 feet, an expansion space of 3/4” is required.
• If the installation area exceeds 80 feet in either direction transition pieces are needed.
• To cover your expansion space, CALI carries matching vinyl flooring moldings that include reducers, t-moldings, quarter rounds, and thresholds. Matching stair parts are also available; including stair nosings and treads. Please visit CALI’s website for more details.

Quick Tip! When installing around pipes, drill the hole 3/4” larger than the diameter of the pipes.

Installation

Installing the First Row

1. Starting from the left with the tongue-side facing the wall, carefully place the first board in place, using spacers to leave a 3/8” expansion gap between wall and edges of the plank.
2. Install the second piece by aligning the butt end with the end of the first piece at a 45 degree angle. Softly push the second piece down until the tongue and groove lock together to secure the joint on the ends. The planks should lay flat. Continue in this manner until reaching the final board in the first row.
   • Quick Tip! The first row serves as the building blocks for your installation. Ensure the seams are perfectly aligned to prevent any gapping on the following rows.
3. Cut the final board piece to length and install it in the same manner as the previous piece. Use the extra cut piece to start your next row if it is longer than 8”.

Next Steps:

1. Confirm the first row is straight. If the cut plank is at least 8” in length, it can be used as a starter piece in your next row. When laying the next row and future rows, make sure that there is at least 8” between the plank end joints on adjacent rows. Avoid an “H” pattern by varying the size of your starter piece. For a natural look, rows and patterns should be staggered.
2. Install the first board in the next row by angling it up slightly, pushing forward and interlocking the long side. The long side of the plank should fit snug with no gapping.
3. Insert the butt end of the second plank into the butt end of the first plank. Offset the planks by about 1/2.”
4. Slightly lift the second plank and push in slightly along the length of the butt seam until the long side is fully engaged. The adjacent plank will also lift. The butt end seam should stay engaged during this action.
5. Make sure both planks lay flat afterwards and that all seams are tight. Use of a tapping block along the long side of the planks may help to ensure secure engagement. Continue installing the rest of the planks of this row.
   • Quick Tip! Once a few rows are installed, it may be easier to stand on the installed planks and install in reverse.
6. Use a pull bar and a hammer if needed, to assist with engaging the final plank in the row. Insert a spacer to ensure proper expansion space is left. Continue installing the rest of the rows in the same manner.
   • Quick Tip! Carefully inspect the long edge and short ends of the planks for any gapping before moving on to the next row. If you notice any gaps, STOP, and reinstall the boards to ensure a snug fit.

Installing the Final Row:

1. The last row may need to be cut lengthwise (ripped). Make sure ripped piece is at least 3 inches. Cut the last board to size. Use pull bar and hammer to engage the length of the last plank.

Floor Care Maintenance

After Install/Floor Care Maintenance:

General Care:

• For general cleaning, dry or damp mop as needed using Bona Pro Stone Tile & Laminate Floor Cleaner or something similar.
• Never use a steam mop or wet-mop as standing water may cause permanent damage and the heat from the steam mop may dull the finish. The moisture from the dampened mop should evaporate off the floor quickly.
• Although CALI Vinyl flooring is waterproof, it is still a best practice to avoid excess moisture on the floor. Therefore, we recommend soaking up spills immediately using a dry towel or dry mop.
• To clean up dried glue use either Bostik Ultimate Adhesive Remover or Titebond Adhesive Remover cleaning wipes.

Preventative Care:

• Vacuum or sweep the floor with a broom or dust mop on a regular basis or as needed to remove dirt, sand, or grit to protect the floor from scratches. Be careful of other debris such as small rocks and pebbles being drug across the floor.
• Do not use vacuums that use a beater bar or turn beater bar off; brush or felt vacuum heads are recommended as opposed to hard heads.
• Keep pet nails trimmed to avoid excessive scratching.
• To prevent indentations and scratches, remove small diameter buttons/ends from furniture legs and replace with felt tipped non-staining floor protectors with a surface no less than 1” in diameter. Heavier objects may require wider floor protectors. Periodically check the felt tips for wear or buildup of grit/debris and replace as needed.
• Fit rolling furniture with soft rubber casters with a diameter of at least 2”.
• When moving large appliances or furniture, use proper dollies, glides, or 1/8” Masonite with the shiny side down – do not slide or drag across the floor. Rolling appliances across the floor or using heavy load bearing carts with small wheels may damage the vinyl floor.
• Use interior and exterior doormats at entrances to prevent dirt and moisture from being tracked onto the floor. Area rugs are also recommended in front of kitchen sinks and in high traffic areas. Rugs must be made of a breathable material to prevent moisture entrapment. We recommend using a breathable rug underlay; mesh or grid patterns are best. Do not use rugs with solid rubber or vinyl backings as this may damage the finish.
• Limit direct sunlight on the floor by using curtains and blinds in areas that are exposed to high UV rays.
• Abrasive or harsh chemicals should not be used to clean the floor. Never use any of the following products on the floor: mineral spirits, paint thinner, acetone, ammonia-based cleaners, acrylic finishes, wax-based products, detergents, bleach, polishes, oil soap, abrasive cleaning soaps, or acidic materials such as vinegar. Never apply wax treatments to the floor.
• Heating units or non-insulated ductwork close to the flooring or subfloor may cause “hot spots” which must be eliminated prior to installation.
• Heavy furniture (500+ lbs.) may obstruct the free, natural movement of a floated floor.
• Do not install flooring under permanent or fixed cabinetry and never nail or screw anything through a floated floor.
• Lighter colors and darker colors naturally show more dirt, flaws, and marks and are considered higher maintenance

GLUE-DOWN INSTALL GUIDE

Glue Down Luxury Vinyl Plank Installation

Before you begin installation, remember to P.A.C.E. yourself with the checklist below. Full installation instructions and maintenance guidelines can also be found online at CALIfloors.com

PACE: PREPARE THE SUBFLOOR

• Required Adhesive will act as Moisture Barrier
  • Make sure the subfloor is flat, level, clean and free of debris. New concrete must be cured for at least 60 days. Test the subfloor moisture prior to installation and apply an appropriate moisture barrier on concrete subfloors or a vapor barrier on plywood. (Required adhesive will act as moisture/vapor barrier.

PACE: ACCLIMATE FLOORING

• Acclimate Your Flooring For 24 Hours
  • Prior to installation, store planks at room temperature, unopened and in their original packaging. Acclimate the boxes of flooring as close to the installation area as possible for 24 hours in normal living conditions

PACE: CONTROL ENVIRONMENT

• Vinyl flooring can be used in areas ranging from 32°F to 113°F.

PACE: EXPANSION GAPS

• Leave at least 3/8″ expansion spaces between flooring and ALL vertical objects (walls, cabinets, pipes, etc.) Large flooring runs may require additional expansion space. Undercut door jambs and casings to provide adequate expansion space.
• Do not screw or nail cabinetry or other permanent fixtures to the flooring.

Glue Down Vinyl Laguna Plank Installation

Note: Flooring not used for its intended purpose will not be covered under warranty. Proper installation and maintenance are key elements in achieving best flooring results. It is the responsibility of the installer/owner to follow all guidelines provided by CALI for success. Please read through this document completely, additional installation materials such as videos, illustrations and more can also be found at CALIFloors.com. .

• Upon ordering of vinyl floor materials consider adding an additional 5% to allow for cutting waste and grading allowance.
• CALI flooring is manufactured in accordance with accepted industry standards, which permit manufacturing, grading and natural deficiencies not to exceed 5%. If more than 5% of the material is unusable, do not install the flooring. Immediately contact the distributor/retailer from which the flooring was purchased. No claim will be accepted for materials with visible defects once they are installed. Installation of any material serves as acceptance of the material delivered.
• Installer/Owner assumes all responsibility to inspect all flooring before installation. Planks deemed unacceptable in appearance can be placed in closets, near walls or simply not be used. Pieces with glaring defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or not be used as use constitutes acceptance.
• It is the responsibility of the installer/homeowner to determine if the job site conditions, environmental conditions and sub-floor are acceptable for the installation of CALI vinyl plank flooring. Prior to installation, the installer/ owner must determine that the jobsite meets or exceeds all applicable World Floor Covering Association Installation Guidelines. CALI does NOT warrant against failure resulting from or connected with subfloor, job site damage, or environmental deficiencies after installation. CALI makes no warranty or guarantee of the quality of the chosen installer’s work or of a particular installation performed by him or her. CALI disclaims all liability for any errors or improprieties in the installation of its products by an installer.
• Floor noise is normal and will vary from one installation type to the next. Occasional noise is due to structural movement and may relate to sub-floor type, flatness, deflection, and/or related to the fasteners, changes in environmental conditions, relative humidity and the amount of topside pressure applied to the flooring. For these reasons floor noise is not considered a product or manufacturer defect.
• During installation, it is the installer’s responsibility to document all jobsite conditions and measurements including the installation date, site relative humidity, temperature, and subfloor moisture content. For a complete list of points to address prior to installation, refer to ASTM F1482 − 21.

Transport, Storage, Acclimation

• Transport and store cartons in lay down, flat position.
• Stack boxes no more than 8 cartons (4ft.) high. Keep away from direct sunlight
• Room temperature and relative humidity must be consistent with year-round living conditions for at least 5 days prior to installation.
• Due to the nature of CALI Vinyl Laguna, acclimation is not needed. Installation can start immediately.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Prior to installation, inspect planks in daylight for visible faults/damage and color/print. Check if subfloor/site conditions comply with the specifications described in these instructions. If you are not satisfied do not install, and contact your supplier. CALI is not responsible for flooring that is installed with visible defects or incorrect color/print.

Recommended Tools

• Tape measure
• Chalk line
• Utility knife
• Rubber mallet
• Miter saw
• 1/8″ x 1/8″ x 1/8″ Square notch towel
• Pencil
• 1/4″ spacers
• Table saw
• Double-sided prybar
• Tapping block

Subfloor Requirements

General

• General Soft subfloors (e.g. carpets) must be removed
• The subfloor must be level – Flat to 3/16” per 10-foot radius
• The subfloor must be clean = Thoroughly swept and free of all debris
• The subfloor must be dry
• The subfloor must be structurally sound

Even though CALI Floors vinyl plank flooring is waterproof it is NOT considered a moisture barrier. Hence we always require the use of a moisture barrier on concrete. When using the glue down method for install, it is required to seal your concrete subfloor or use an appropriate adhesive with moisture protection.

Acceptable Subfloor Types

• CD Exposure 1 plywood (grade stamped US PS1-95)
• OSB Exposure 1subfloor panels
• Underlayment grade particleboard
• Existing wood (must be sanded to its raw state)
• Concrete
• Light weight concrete (may require a primer – see Titebond manufacturer for details)
• Ceramic tile (check with Titebond manufacture to see what prep will be needed: patch, self-lever, primer, etc.)

Acceptable Subloor thickness Requirements:

Glue Down Details

CALI recommends the use of Titebond 675 when gluing CALI Vinyl Laguna. Make sure to follow all Titebond 675 guidelines which include but are not limited to:

• Plywood/OSB/Particle board subfloor moisture must not be over 13%
• Concrete Moisture should not read over 8lbs when using a Calcium Chloride test or 90% RH when using an in-situ probe or Lignomat SDM
• Concrete alkaline levels should not be more than 9.0 pH
• Use a 1/16” Square notch trowel
• For more details please see Titebond 675 product page below: http://www.titebond.com/product/flooring/62a57e94-6380-4de4-aa0e-45158d58160d

Wood subfloors must be securely fastened. A best practice is to nail or screw every 6” along joists to avoid squeaking.
If leveling is needed, sand down high spots and fill in low spots with a Portland based leveling compound.

Tip: If your plywood, OSB or particle board subfloor is reading higher than 13% MC it is advised to find and correct the source of moisture intrusion before continuing installation. CALI is not responsible for any damage caused by moisture intrusion.

Concrete subfloors must be fully cured and at least 60 days old, preferably 90 days old. If leveling is needed, grind down high spots and level low spots with a Portland based leveling compound. Slabs on or below grade must be free of hydrostatic pressure.

Important: CALI vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, however moisture intrusions from concrete hydrostatic pressure, flooding, or plumbing leaks, along with high levels of alkalinity, can affect the floor over time. Moisture can also be trapped below the flooring and create mold or mildew. The installer, not CALI is responsible for making sure the concrete moisture and relative humidity are suitable prior to installing this floor.

Crawlspaces must have a minimum of a 6-mil polyethylene sheeting covering any exposed earth. Crawl spaces must have adequate ventilation and a minimum of 18” of air space between the ground and the floor joist.

Radiant Heat Systems

• When glued down, CALI vinyl is not compatible for use with radiant heat systems.

Installation of CALI Vinyl Flooring

Before laying: Measure the room at right angle to the direction of the planks. Planks in the final row should be at least 3 inches wide. Due to this rule, planks in the first row may need to be cut to smaller size. Shuffle planks in order to obtain a pleasant blend of shades. We recommend laying the planks along the longest, straight, exterior facing wall. You should never nail or screw planks to the subfloor.

• Floor should be installed from several cartons at the same time to ensure good color, shade and appearance. CALI vinyl plank will have multiple patterns for each product.

Expansion gaps: Even though CALI vinyl plank will have very minimal expansion and contraction it is still required to leave 3/8” expansion space around the perimeter as well as all fixed objects (tile, fireplace, cabinets).

• When installing using the glue down method the use of transition pieces becomes optional.
• To cover your expansion space, CALI carries matching bamboo flooring moldings that include reducers, t-moldings, baseboards, quarter rounds, and thresholds. Matching stair parts are also available; including stair nosing, treads and risers. Please visit CALI’s Flooring Accessories webpage.

Quick Tip

• When installing around pipes, drill the hole ¾” larger than the diameter of the pipes.

Installing the First Row:

Measure the room at right angle to the direction of the planks. Planks in the final row should be at least 1/3 the width of a plank. Due to this rule, planks in the first row can be cut to smaller size. Shuffle planks in order to obtain a pleasant blend of shades. Lay planks preferably following the direction of the main source of light. We recommend laying on wooden floors crossways to the existing floorboard. You should never nail or screw planks to the subfloor.

1. Start out by pouring adhesive on to the subfloor. Make sure you do not pour out to much at one time. CALI does not recommend spreading more than an arm’s length (6 to 8 feet) worth of adhesive at a time. This will help to ensure the glue does not flash over before you can adhere the planks.
2. Use tapping block as necessary to fit planks together, but be careful not to let installed floor move on the wet adhesive while you are working. Repeat these steps as you move along with the installation.
3. Starting from the left with the tongue-side facing the wall, carefully place the first board in place, using spacers to leave a 3/8” expansion gap between wall and edges of the plank.
4. Install the second piece by aligning the butt end with the end of the first piece at a 45 degree angle. Softly push the second piece down until the tongue and groove lock together to secure the joint on the ends. Continue in this manner until reaching the final board in the first row.
5. Cut the final board piece to length and install in the same manner as the previou spiece. Use the extra cut piece to start your next row if it is longer than 8”.

Next steps:

1. Confirm the first row is straight. If the cut plank is at least 8” in length, it can be used as a starter piece in your next row. When laying the next row and future rows, make sure that there is at least 8” between the plank end joints on adjacent rows. Avoid an “H” pattern by varying the size of your starter piece. For a natural look rows and patterns should be staggered.
2. Position the first board in place by angling it up slightly, pushing forward and interlocking the side tongue. The long side of the plank should fit snug with no gapping.
3. Insert the butt end of the second plank into the butt end of the first plank. Offset the planks by about 1/2.”
4. Slightly lift the second plank and push in slightly along the length of the butt seam until the long side is fully engaged. The adjacent plank will also lift. The butt end seam should stay engaged during this action.
5. Make sure both planks lay flat afterwards and that all seams are tight. Use of a tapping block along the long side of the planks may help to ensure secure engagement. Continue installing the rest of the planks of this row.
6. Use a pull bar and a hammer to engage the final plank in the row. Insert a spacer to ensure proper expansion space is left. Continue installing the rest of the rows in the same manner.

Quick Tip

• Carefully inspect the long edge and shor ends of the planks for any gapping before moving onto the next row. If you notice any gaps, STOP, and reinstall the boards to ensure a snug fit.

Installing the Final Row:

1. The last row may need to be cut lengthwise (ripped). Make sure ripped piece is at least 3 inches. Cut the last board to size. Use pull bar and hammer to engage the length of the last plank.

After Install/Floor Care Maintenance:

• For Cleaning, we recommend dry or damp mopping as needed using Bona Pro Stone Tile & Laminate cleaner or similar.
• To clean up dried glue use Bona Ultimate Adhesive remover.
• Do not use anything abrasive or harsh chemicals to clean the floor. Never use any of the following products on your floor: ammonia-based cleaners, mineral spirits, acrylic finishes, wax-based products, detergents, bleach, polishes, oil soap, abrasive cleaning soaps, acidic materials such as vinegar.
• Never apply wax treatments or top coats to the floor.
• Do not drag furniture across the floor, use felt pads on chair and furniture legs.
• Keep pet’s nails trimmed to avoid excess scratching.
• Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove loose dirt. Do NOT use vacuums that use a beater bar or turn beater bar off.
• Place quality walk-off mats at all entrances to retain tracked in dirt, grit and moisture, never use latex or rubber backed mats as they can permanently stain the floor.
• Area rugs are also recommended in front of kitchen sinks and in high traffic areas.
• Although the CALI vinyl plank flooring is water proof, it is still a best practice to avoid excessive moisture on the floor. Therefore, we recommend soaking up spills immediately using a dry towel or dry mop.
• Limit direct sunlight on floor by using curtains and blinds in areas that are exposed to high UV rays.
• Heating units or non-insulated ductwork close to the flooring or subfloor may cause “hot spots” which must be eliminated prior to installation.

Questions?

• 888-788-2254
• CALIfloors.com

References

• CALIFloors.com
• CALIFloors.com
• Titebond

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