Lifeproof Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is designed for durability, waterproof resistance, and ease of installation in a variety of interior environments. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the manufacturer’s installation instructions, environmental requirements, tools and materials, and best practices for achieving a successful and long-lasting installation. These guidelines are derived directly from the official product manual and installation instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Installation Overview
Lifeproof flooring is a floating system that utilizes a drop-and-lock installation method. Unlike traditional flooring materials that require nailing or gluing to the subfloor, Lifeproof is engineered to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, without being secured to the underlying surface. Floating installation allows the floor to maintain its integrity and appearance long-term, while also simplifying the setup process.
Before beginning the installation, it is critical to review the product specifications and application restrictions. Lifeproof is intended for interior use only and can be installed on-grade, above-grade, or below-grade, including basements, as long as moisture levels are within acceptable ranges.
Environmental Considerations
Moisture control is essential for the proper application and performance of Lifeproof flooring. The following conditions must be met prior to installation:
- The subfloor relative humidity should not exceed 85%.
- The moisture vapor emission rating (MVER) must be 8 lbs. or less.
- Standing water, urine, or other liquids must be promptly removed from the area, as the flooring cannot prevent structural damage caused by flooding or excessive moisture.
Before installation, it is required to complete all job site moisture-related tasks, such as plumbing and drywall work. Flooring should be stored in a dry, cool area away from direct sunlight, heating/cooling ducts, and unregulated environments like garages or patios. Flooring stored on concrete slabs should be elevated at least 4 inches (10.2 cm) to allow for air circulation beneath the boxes.
Application Restrictions
Lifeproof is appropriate for most interior environments but is not suitable for the following:
- Outdoor areas, including decks or patios
- Saunas
- Seasonal porches
- Camping trailers
- Boats
- Lanais
- Rooms that are prone to flooding
However, planks with a minimum wear layer of 22 mil can be installed in sunrooms or solariums, provided the room is regularly maintained and conditions meet the manufacturer’s requirements.
Installation Conditions and Preparation
Subfloor Requirements
To ensure a smooth, long-lasting installation, the subfloor must meet the following criteria:
- Flatness Tolerances: Subfloor must meet manufacturer-recommended tolerances for levelness.
- Grout Lines: If installing over an existing ceramic tile floor, grout lines do not need to be filled, but subfloor flatness must still be maintained.
- Vapor Barrier: In moisture-prone environments, a 6 mil polyfilm vapor barrier is recommended. The Lifeproof Universal Underlayment (SKU 1006262709) has been tested and approved for use in such conditions. Always consult manufacturers of unapproved underlayments regarding warranty coverage.
- No Gluing or Nailing: Lifeproof is a floating system and must not be glued, nailed, or fastened to the subfloor.
Moldings and Transitions
Lifeproof offers compatible moldings and transitions, which are available at The Home Depot either in-store or via online order. These should be installed after the flooring to cover expansion gaps and create clean, professional-looking transitions.
For small tiles (<= 36”), a brick pattern with staggered joints is acceptable, as well as a 4-corner point-to-point installation. However, point-to-point installations should never be used for planks that are greater than 36” in length. Always use a staggered layout for planks of this size to prevent buckling or warping over time.
Expansion Gaps
To accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of the material, spacers must be set a minimum of 1/4 inch (6 mm) around the perimeter of the room. These spacers should not be removed until installation is complete. The final expansion gaps will be covered by moldings during the finishing stage.
Overage Allowance
To account for waste and cuts during installation, it is recommended to order approximately 10% more flooring than the calculated square footage. This buffer ensures a sufficient supply for adjustments and minimizes the risk of needing to source material from a different production run, which could result in noticeable color or shade variations.
Tools and Materials
A successful Lifeproof installation requires the following tools and safety equipment:
- Utility Knife
- Straight Edge
- Measuring Tape
- Pencils
- Profiled Tapping Block
- Pull Bar
- Eye Protection
- Soft-Faced Hammer
- Broom
- Felt or Nylon Pads
Optional tools may include:
- Jigsaw
- Table Saw
- Miter Saw
- Circular Saw
- Hole Saw
- Moisture Meter (for wood or concrete subfloors)
Tools are often available for rent at The Home Depot or other hardware stores. A moisture meter is especially useful for verifying that the subfloor is within acceptable moisture levels before beginning the project.
Installation Process
Pre-Installation Steps
- Survey the Room: Measure the space to determine the layout and starting point. Always begin installation in the area farthest from the entry for the best aesthetic results. For irregular shapes or special cutting, ensure accurate planning.
- Clear the Area: Remove cabinets, vanities, and other interior fixtures before installation. Lifeproof will be installed around them, leaving adequate expansion gaps.
- Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, level, and free from debris. Address any moisture concerns and apply a vapor barrier if required. No acclimation is necessary for Lifeproof before installation.
Laying the Flooring
- Use the Drop-and-Lock System: Begin with a full plank at the starting line and work the flooring across the room using the interlocking design. Use a tapping block and hammer to gently adjust and lock planks together.
- Maintain Expansion Gaps: Keep a 1/4 inch expansion gap along all walls and obstructions. Use spacers as needed.
- Staggered Pattern for Wide Planks: Install planks greater than 36 inches in length in a brick or staggered pattern for stability and aesthetics. Point-to-point installations for large planks are not recommended.
- Cutting Planks and Tiles: Use a utility knife or saw for precision. Apply masking tape to the top surface to prevent chipping when cutting.
Post-Installation Steps
- Cut Trim Pieces: As needed, cut trim or transition strips using a miter saw or straight edge.
- Install Moldings: After flooring is complete, install moldings and transition strips to cover expansion gaps. Choose from the available coordinated moldings for a cohesive look.
Safety and Manufacturer Warranties
All installation must be performed following the official manufacturer guidelines for warranty eligibility. Key warranty-related notes include:
- Lifeproof is a floating floor only and must not be glued or nailed to the subfloor.
- The manufacturer does not warrant installations involving custom cuts, such as 45-degree mitered corners or serpentine edges.
- Custom cutting may void the manufacturer's warranty.
- Installation on stairs or vertical surfaces (walls) will void the warranty.
Additional exclusions include:
- Loss of time or inconvenience
- Incidental or consequential damages (such as labor or material costs associated with re-installation)
Not all states and provinces allow the limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so consult your warranty document to understand your specific legal rights.
Third-Party Installations
If hiring a third party for installation, the homeowner is responsible for the outcome. It is recommended the homeowner be present during the installation or at least review the process in advance. The owner/installer is ultimately responsible for the quality and outcome of the flooring project.
Maintenance and Longevity
While Lifeproof is a waterproof flooring system, it is not intended to act as a moisture barrier. The material does not inhibit the growth of mold or solve structural issues caused by flooding or hydrostatic pressure. Therefore, proper room maintenance is essential. Clean spills immediately, avoid prolonged exposure to standing water, and maintain relative humidity within acceptable limits.
Long-term exposure to direct sunlight may result in discoloration, fading, or buckling. To prevent this, consider using UV-tinted windows or window treatments that block direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Lifeproof Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is a versatile, easy-to-install option suitable for a wide range of interior environments. Its drop-and-lock system, combined with a floating installation method, makes it user-friendly for DIY installers and professionals alike. However, care must be taken to ensure that the subfloor is properly conditioned, installation methods are followed precisely, and that moisture and sunlight exposure are controlled for optimal performance and longevity.
By adhering strictly to the manufacturer’s guidelines, users can ensure a successful and long-lasting flooring solution that meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. The installation process requires minimal tools and no acclimation, significantly reducing the time and complexity of setup.