AstroGuard is a versatile product line designed to offer both hurricane protection and durable flooring solutions. The system includes hurricane fabric panels and waterproof flooring made from a natural wood fiber core. Whether installing AstroGuard hurricane fabric to protect windows and doors or setting up AtroGuard® flooring in a home, users must follow detailed procedures to ensure proper functionality, durability, and compliance with warranty terms. This guide draws from multiple official sources—including installation manuals, FAQs, and DIY instructions—to provide a comprehensive overview of the installation process for both products.
Overview of AstroGuard Products and Applications
AstroGuard offers two primary product lines: hurricane fabric and flooring. The AstroGuard hurricane fabric is designed to shield windows and doors during storms, while AtroGuard® flooring is a waterproof, click-together floor that combines the look of natural wood with the durability of luxury vinyl.
Both products require careful handling during installation. For hurricane fabric, attention must be given to clip placement, tension, and cleaning. For flooring, the focus is on acclimation, subfloor preparation, spacing, and post-installation care.
Each product line is supported by detailed installation instructions from the manufacturer. The hurricane fabric installation guide outlines the use of clips, anchors, and hardware to secure the fabric in place, while the flooring instructions emphasize environmental conditions, expansion joints, and cleaning protocols.
Preparing for Installation
Proper preparation is essential to ensure both the hurricane fabric and the flooring perform as intended. Users must follow several key steps before beginning the installation process.
Acclimation for AtroGuard® Flooring
AtroGuard® flooring must be acclimated before installation to minimize expansion or contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity. According to the manufacturer’s guidelines, the flooring should be kept in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 hours. During this period, the room must maintain a temperature between 60°F and 95°F (15°C and 35°C) and a relative humidity level of 30-65%. The flooring should remain in its original packaging during this time.
Failure to acclimate the flooring properly may result in warping, gapping, or other issues after installation. Additionally, the subfloor must be clean, dry, and level. It should not have any unevenness greater than 3/16” (5mm) over a 10-foot (3m) span.
Materials and Tools for AstroGuard Hurricane Fabric
For hurricane fabric installation, the necessary materials and tools include:
- AstroGuard Hurricane Fabric Panels
- Clips and hardware (provided with the product)
- Power hammer drill for concrete or a standard drill for wood
- Drill bits (7/16” and 1/2” for deluxe anchor, 7/32” for economy anchor)
- Driver bit for the anchor
- Cordless screwdriver with a Phillips head
- Permanent marker
- Stepladder
- Scissors or box cutter
- Cutting surface (such as a large sheet of cardboard)
- Air duster
- 4-foot level
- Writing tool
It is also important to consult the engineering documents included with the product to determine the appropriate clip spacing, which may vary depending on the structure and location.
Installing AstroGuard Hurricane Fabric
The installation process for AstroGuard hurricane fabric involves several precise steps to ensure proper coverage and stability. The following is a detailed breakdown based on manufacturer-provided instructions.
Step 1: Attaching Clips
Begin by determining which sides of the opening will require clips. If the top of the opening is being covered, start with the top. If not, start with the left side. Mark a point 2 inches from the corner, then use a tape measure to mark the remaining clip positions at 12-inch intervals (center-to-center). The exact spacing may vary based on local building codes or manufacturer specifications.
To attach the first clip, position the top and bottom pieces of the clip together, then slide the fabric between them until the edge of the fabric aligns with the first notch. Use a cordless screwdriver to secure the clip with eight screws, as shown in the installation manual. Repeat this process for all remaining clips.
Step 2: Drilling and Hanging the Fabric
Once the clips are in place, hold the fabric over the opening and ensure it is centered. Using a permanent marker, mark the location of the first clip in the upper left corner. With a power drill, create a hole at that point and insert the anchor using the appropriate driver bit. Fasten the fabric on that side and pull it snug across the opening. Mark the clip position on the opposite side, then drill and install the hardware there as well.
It is important not to over-tighten the fabric, as some flexibility is part of the design. After securing the fabric on both sides, repeat the process for any remaining openings.
Step 3: Labeling and Storing
After installation, remove each piece of fabric and label it with a permanent marker using the numbers from a house drawing or diagram. This helps with future identification and reinstallation.
For storage, ensure the fabric is clean and dry before folding it and placing it in storage bags. If any stucco or wall damage occurs during installation, it can be repaired using a stucco patch and paint. Additionally, hardware can be painted to match the home’s exterior.
Cleaning and Maintenance
AstroGuard hurricane fabric should be cleaned after use to maintain its integrity. Begin by washing away dirt and debris with water and a mild soap such as dishwashing liquid. For persistent stains, use OxyClean and a scrub brush. Always allow the fabric to dry completely before storage, as storing it while wet can lead to mildew.
Installing AtroGuard® Flooring
The installation process for AtroGuard® flooring requires careful attention to environmental conditions, subfloor preparation, and expansion joint placement.
Step 1: Acclimation and Subfloor Preparation
Before beginning the installation, ensure the flooring has been acclimated for at least 48 hours in the room where it will be installed. The room must maintain a temperature between 60°F and 95°F and a humidity level between 30% and 65%. The subfloor should also be clean, dry, and level, with no irregularities exceeding 3/16” (5mm) over a 10-foot (3m) span.
Step 2: Laying the Flooring
Begin by unrolling the first board and placing it parallel to incoming light from windows or, if lighting is not a concern, parallel to the longest wall in the room. Install the boards in a click-together fashion, ensuring they lock securely.
For large spaces—those exceeding 4,000 square feet (400 m²) or 66 feet (20 meters) in length—expansion joints should be used to divide the floor into sections. These joints accommodate natural expansion and contraction and prevent buckling or warping.
A recommended expansion space of 1/2” (1cm) should be maintained around all vertical interruptions such as walls, moldings, pillars, HVAC vents, and plumbing fixtures.
Step 3: Special Installation Considerations
AtroGuard® can be installed in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms due to its waterproof properties. However, it should not be used for wall or ceiling installations unless it is fully glued down with recommended adhesives such as Taylor 2091 or Henry© 650P. It is also important to avoid installing kitchen cabinets directly over the flooring, as this restricts the floor’s ability to move freely.
An optional pre-attached foam backing can be used to enhance sound insulation and joint support, but it should not be combined with an additional underlayment. Adding an underlayment to AtroGuard® with pre-attached foam backing will void the warranty.
Step 4: Post-Installation Care
After installation, the flooring should be cleaned regularly. Use a dust mop or vacuum with a hard surface attachment to remove dust and debris. Avoid using rotating brushes, floor scrubbers, jet mops, or buffers, as these can damage the surface.
If a wet mop is necessary, use a laminate cleaner or water. Do not use excessive moisture. For stubborn stains, a damp cloth and mild soap can be used, followed by thorough drying.
Warranty and Limitations
Both AstroGuard hurricane fabric and AtroGuard® flooring come with specific warranty terms that users should be aware of.
AstroGuard Hurricane Fabric Warranty
AstroGuard hurricane fabric is covered under a 10-year limited warranty provided by hurricanefabric.com. This warranty covers manufacturing defects but does not extend to damage caused by improper installation, misuse, or failure to clean and store the product correctly.
To maintain warranty coverage, users must follow all installation and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This includes using the correct clips and hardware, acclimating the fabric where necessary, and ensuring it is stored in a clean and dry condition.
AtroGuard® Flooring Warranty
AtroGuard® flooring is also backed by a manufacturer’s warranty, though specific terms may vary based on the product variant and region. The warranty generally covers manufacturing defects and performance issues related to water resistance and durability. However, it does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, such as failure to acclimate the flooring, using incompatible underlayment, or neglecting expansion joints.
It is important to note that wall or ceiling installations are not covered under the AtroGuard® warranty. For such applications, the product must be fully glued down using approved adhesives, and the user must accept responsibility for any issues that arise.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Several common questions arise during the installation of both AstroGuard hurricane fabric and AtroGuard® flooring. The following addresses some of the most frequently encountered issues.
Common Issues with AstroGuard Hurricane Fabric
Loose or uneven fabric: If the fabric feels loose after installation, it may be due to improper tension. Avoid over-tightening, as some flexibility is part of the design. If the fabric is sagging, recheck the clip spacing and anchor placement.
Difficulty with hardware alignment: If clips or anchors are not aligning correctly, ensure that the fabric is centered and that all holes have been properly marked and drilled. Using a 4-foot level can help confirm the alignment.
Stains or mildew: Stains can be removed using OxyClean and a scrub brush. Always ensure the fabric is completely dry before storage to prevent mildew.
Common Issues with AtroGuard® Flooring
Gapping between boards: Gaps may appear if the flooring was not properly acclimated before installation. Ensure the room remains within the recommended temperature and humidity range during and after installation.
Difficulty with expansion joints: If the floor is buckling or warping, it may be due to a lack of expansion joints in large spaces. Install expansion joints according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to accommodate natural expansion and contraction.
Cleaning issues: Avoid using excessive water or harsh chemicals. Stick to recommended cleaning solutions and tools to maintain the floor’s appearance and durability.
Conclusion
AstroGuard offers two distinct but equally important products: hurricane fabric for window and door protection and AtroGuard® flooring for durable, waterproof interior use. Both require careful preparation, precise installation, and regular maintenance to ensure long-term performance and warranty compliance. By following the manufacturer’s detailed instructions, users can achieve optimal results and extend the lifespan of their AstroGuard products. Whether securing a home against extreme weather or upgrading a living space with a resilient flooring option, AstroGuard provides a reliable and versatile solution.