The installation of Gerflor vinyl sheetgoods and wall cladding products requires careful attention to subfloor and wall preparation, adhesive application, and post-installation finishing techniques. These guidelines are derived from official technical documentation provided by Gerflor USA and are intended to ensure a durable and aesthetically consistent result. The following sections outline the key procedures and considerations for installing Gerflor homogeneous vinyl sheetgoods and MURAL ULTRA, MURAL CLUB, and MURAL CALYPSO wall cladding systems.
Subfloor Preparation for Vinyl Sheetgoods
Before installing Gerflor homogeneous vinyl sheetgoods, the subfloor must be thoroughly evaluated and prepared. The subfloor serves as the foundation for the flooring system and must meet specific criteria to ensure proper adhesion and long-term performance.
Moisture testing is a critical first step. The subfloor should be tested for moisture content to prevent future issues such as adhesive failure or warping of the vinyl. If radiant heating systems are present beneath the subfloor, additional curing time and temperature controls are necessary. The subfloor must be allowed to stabilize at the recommended installation temperature and humidity levels before proceeding.
Any imperfections or damage on the subfloor should be addressed through patching and leveling. Cracks, uneven surfaces, or high spots must be repaired using appropriate patching compounds or leveling agents. The subfloor should be clean, dry, and free of debris, oil, or other contaminants that could interfere with adhesive bonding.
Dry Laying and Relaxation Period
Once the subfloor is prepared, the vinyl sheetgoods should be dry laid to allow for proper relaxation. This step is essential for minimizing dimensional changes that may occur due to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. The sheets should be placed on the subfloor and left to relax for 16 to 24 hours. During this time, the material adjusts to its new environment, reducing the risk of buckling or gaps after installation.
The relaxation period also allows for any minor adjustments in sheet alignment or orientation. Installers should use this time to verify that the sheets are properly positioned and that any seams or joints will be aligned correctly when the adhesive is applied.
Adhesive Application and Installation
After the relaxation period, the vinyl sheets are ready for adhesive application. Gerflor recommends using an acrylic adhesive specifically formulated for homogeneous vinyl sheetgoods. The adhesive should be applied using a 1/16" x 1/16" x 1/16" notch trowel to ensure even and consistent coverage.
The adhesive is applied to the subfloor in sections, and the vinyl sheet is carefully placed over the adhesive. It is important to work in manageable sections to prevent the adhesive from drying out before the sheet is fully adhered. Once in place, the sheet should be rolled out using a floor roller to remove air pockets and ensure full contact with the adhesive.
Careful attention should be given to the edges and seams of the sheets. The sheets must be pressed firmly into place to avoid any gaps or uneven areas. Any excess adhesive that oozes to the surface should be wiped away with a clean cloth before it hardens.
Seaming and Heat Welding
Once the vinyl sheets are installed and the adhesive has cured, the seams between the sheets can be heat welded for a seamless finish. Heat welding involves applying heat to the edges of the sheets and using a welding rod to fuse the edges together. This process creates a strong, durable bond that is resistant to moisture and wear.
The heat welding process should be performed after the adhesive has fully cured to ensure that the sheets are firmly in place. The weld should be inspected for any irregularities or weak spots, and any defects should be corrected before the final finishing steps.
Storage and Handling Considerations
Proper storage and handling of Gerflor vinyl sheetgoods are essential for maintaining the quality and performance of the material. The sheets should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Exposure to excessive heat or cold can cause the material to warp or lose its flexibility.
During transportation and installation, the sheets should be handled with care to avoid bending, folding, or puncturing the material. Installers should wear gloves and use proper lifting techniques to prevent damage to the sheets.
Wall Cladding Installation for MURAL ULTRA, MURAL CLUB, and MURAL CALYPSO
In addition to vinyl sheetgoods, Gerflor offers wall cladding products such as MURAL ULTRA, MURAL CLUB, and MURAL CALYPSO. These products are designed for interior wall applications and require specific installation techniques to ensure proper adhesion and alignment.
The first step in wall cladding installation is to prepare the wall substrate. The wall must be clean, dry, and free of any loose materials or contaminants. Any cracks or imperfections should be repaired using appropriate patching compounds or putty. The wall should also be primed according to the manufacturer's specifications to improve adhesion.
Once the wall is prepared, the cladding material can be cut and fitted to the desired dimensions. The material should be cut using a fine-toothed saw or utility knife to ensure clean and precise edges. The cut pieces should be dry fitted to verify the alignment and fit before adhesive is applied.
Acrylic adhesive is recommended for attaching the cladding material to the wall. The adhesive should be applied evenly to the back of the cladding using a suitable trowel or applicator. The cladding is then pressed firmly into place, and any excess adhesive should be removed with a clean cloth.
Joining and Finishing Techniques
After the cladding is installed, the pieces must be joined together to create a seamless appearance. For internal and external corners, the cladding can be overlapped or butted together depending on the design. Special junctions may be required for obtuse angles or curved surfaces.
If the cladding overlaps the floor, a coving or transition piece should be installed to create a smooth and professional finish. The coving should be cut to fit the corner and secured with adhesive or mechanical fasteners.
Heat welding can also be used to join the edges of the cladding material for a more durable and seamless appearance. This technique is particularly useful for large wall surfaces or areas where a high level of durability is required.
Environmental and Temperature Considerations
Both vinyl sheetgoods and wall cladding installations are sensitive to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Gerflor provides specific temperature ranges for storage, handling, and installation to ensure optimal performance.
The installation area should be maintained at a stable temperature and humidity level during the installation process. Sudden changes in temperature or humidity can cause the material to expand or contract, leading to warping, buckling, or adhesive failure.
Installers should also be aware of the curing times for adhesives and welding materials. These times can vary depending on environmental conditions and should be followed closely to ensure a strong and lasting bond.
Conclusion
The installation of Gerflor vinyl sheetgoods and wall cladding products requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and adherence to the manufacturer's guidelines. Proper subfloor and wall preparation, adhesive application, and finishing techniques are essential for achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. By following the recommended procedures and environmental considerations, installers can ensure a long-lasting and high-performing installation.
For more information on Gerflor installation guidelines and technical specifications, refer to the official documentation and technical support resources.