Armstrong offers comprehensive installation instructions for both suspended ceiling systems and flooring products, emphasizing safety, precision, and adherence to environmental conditions. These instructions are detailed in official manuals, product guides, and support materials, which provide essential steps for professional and DIY users. This article outlines key considerations, procedural steps, and technical specifications for Armstrong installation projects, based solely on the source documentation provided.
Safety and Environmental Precautions
Before beginning any Armstrong installation project, safety and environmental factors must be prioritized. The documentation outlines critical safety tips and environmental requirements to ensure both the longevity of the installed product and the safety of the installer.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
The installation of Armstrong suspended ceilings requires the use of personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves. This is due to the sharp edges of metal grid components, which can pose a risk of injury during handling and assembly.
Work Area Safety:
When working overhead, it is essential to ensure that the work area is free of obstructions and that the ladder or platform being used is stable. This minimizes the risk of accidents during installation.
Environmental Conditions:
Armstrong installation instructions specify that panels should be stored and installed in environments with appropriate temperature and humidity levels. This is crucial for meeting product warranty requirements and ensuring that the materials do not warp or degrade during or after installation. Specifically, panels should be removed from their packaging 24 hours prior to installation and allowed to acclimate to the interior conditions of the installation area.
Insulation and Heating Considerations:
It is important to avoid installing ceiling panels below an existing ceiling that contains embedded radiant-heat coils. Additionally, loose fill or batt insulation should not be placed directly on top of the panels, as this can affect performance and durability. Installers are also advised to keep their hands clean to prevent smudges on the finished ceiling surface.
Suspended Ceiling Installation
The installation of Armstrong suspended ceilings involves a series of structured steps, including the location of joists, the installation of main beams, and the assembly of the grid system. These instructions are detailed in official documentation and emphasize the importance of precision in layout and alignment.
Locating Joists and Preparing the Grid:
To begin the installation, hidden joists must be located. This can be done using a stud finder or by tapping on the ceiling until a solid thud is heard. Nails can then be driven into the ceiling to mark the exact center line of the joists. Once the joist locations are identified, chalk lines should be snapped to indicate the direction and spacing of the joists. These lines serve as a guide for installing the main beams, which should be placed perpendicular to the joists.
Main Beam Installation:
Main beams are typically installed at 4-foot intervals. However, if the room configuration is unusual, additional components may be required. For traditional hanger wire systems, a minimum 3-inch drop is necessary to allow for ceiling tile installation and accessibility. In contrast, the QuickHang™ system requires a minimum 2.5-inch drop. QuickHang instructions are highlighted by a gray background in the documentation and are available through select retailers.
Grid Assembly and Leveling:
After the main beams are installed, cross tees are added between the main beams to complete the grid structure. To ensure the grid is square, the diagonals of the 2-foot by 4-foot opening should be measured. If the measurements are unequal, one of the main beams should be trimmed until the diagonals are equal. This step ensures that the ceiling is level and that the panels will fit properly.
Special Considerations:
For installations that include light fixtures, additional clearance and support are necessary. Installers should consult the light manufacturer’s instructions for specific requirements. If installing below an existing drywall ceiling, a minimum 4-inch drop is required, and the QuickHang system cannot be used in this configuration.
Flooring Installation
Armstrong flooring products, including vinyl tile and commercial sheet flooring, require careful preparation of the subfloor and adherence to specific installation procedures. The documentation provides detailed guidance on the tools, materials, and environmental conditions necessary for successful installation.
Preparation and Subfloor Requirements:
Before installing Armstrong flooring, the existing flooring and furniture must be removed. If necessary, old flooring should be disposed of, and any wall base, millwork, or trim that will be reused should be gently removed. The subfloor must be dry, clean, and flat. Any necessary repairs should be completed prior to installation.
Acclimation and Installation Tools:
Vinyl tile flooring should be acclimated according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that it adapts to the environmental conditions of the installation area. Common tools required for installation include a utility knife, carpenter’s square, and a 100-pound roller. The installation instructions should be reviewed in detail to determine the specific tools and materials needed for the project.
Commercial Sheet Flooring Installation:
Armstrong commercial sheet flooring can be installed directly over ceramic tile, quarry tile, terrazzo, or marble subfloors, provided they are firmly bonded to a structurally sound substrate. The surface must be cleaned of all paint, varnish, oil, wax, and other finishes. Glazed or very smooth surfaces should be roughened, and any badly fitted joints or cracks should be repaired using S-466. If the floors are badly worn or have low places, they should be leveled with S-466.
For installation over metal surfaces, the surface must be roughened, and a Portland cement-type underlayment must be applied at a minimum thickness of 1/8 inch.
Temperature-Controlled Environments:
Resilient flooring should only be installed in temperature-controlled environments. A constant temperature must be maintained before, during, and after installation to prevent material distortion or poor adhesion. The permanent or temporary HVAC system must be operational before installation begins. Portable heaters are not recommended, as they may not provide sufficient heat to the room or subfloor. Kerosene heaters should never be used for this purpose.
Seaming and Adhesive Application
Proper seaming and adhesive application are critical to the durability and appearance of Armstrong flooring installations. The documentation provides detailed instructions for using S-763 seam adhesive, which is designed to reduce installation time and improve the quality of the finished seam.
Seam Preparation and Adhesive Application:
Before applying the adhesive, the seam should be double-cut to ensure a clean edge. Both sides of the seam should be folded back, and the adhesive or vinyl tape should be applied. One side is then placed back into position, and a 1/8-inch bead of S-763 Seam Adhesive is applied along the seam edge. The seam is then tucked into place, forcing the adhesive up through the joint. Any adhesive residue on the surface of the flooring should be cleaned using a white cloth dampened with neutral detergent and water.
Drying and Traffic:
After the adhesive is applied, the seam should be allowed to dry. Foot traffic should be avoided for at least two hours, and rolling loads should be postponed for four to six hours to allow the adhesive to fully cure.
Alternative Adhesive Methods:
As an alternative to vinyl tape, modified loose lay installation adhesive can be used. The documentation specifies the open time for the adhesive, ensuring that it is applied and worked within the recommended timeframe for optimal results.
Professional Installation and Support
For complex or large-scale projects, Armstrong recommends hiring a certified professional installer. These contractors are trained specifically to install Armstrong products, ensuring that the installation meets quality standards and warranty requirements.
Finding Certified Installers:
Consumers are advised to consult with their retailer to connect with a local Armstrong Flooring Certified Installer. These professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to complete the job correctly and efficiently.
Support Resources:
Armstrong provides a suite of free online support materials and tools to assist installers with product setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting. These resources include detailed instructions, design parameters, and parts information. In addition, Armstrong offers assistance with project planning, product selection, and emergency support.
Conclusion
Armstrong installation instructions for both suspended ceilings and flooring products emphasize safety, precision, and environmental control. By following the detailed procedures outlined in the manufacturer’s documentation, installers can ensure that their projects meet quality standards and warranty requirements. Whether working on a residential or commercial installation, it is essential to prepare the site properly, use the correct tools and materials, and adhere to the specified environmental conditions. For complex projects, professional assistance from a certified installer is recommended to achieve the best results.