Tarkett Vinyl Flooring Installation Guide for Residential and Commercial Applications

Tarkett is a globally recognized leader in the flooring industry, offering a broad range of resilient flooring products, including vinyl planks, tiles, and rolls. These products are designed with user-friendly installation systems, compatibility with various subfloors, and eco-conscious manufacturing practices. This guide outlines the installation procedures for Tarkett’s vinyl flooring, focusing on recommended methods for varying surface areas and flooring types, as detailed in the official documentation from Tarkett’s resource center. The instructions are tailored for residential and commercial applications and emphasize adherence to best practices for durability, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability.

Installation Methods Based on Surface Area

Tarkett categorizes the installation of vinyl rolls based on the surface area to be covered. This ensures that the method chosen is both efficient and suitable for the structural requirements of the space. According to the documentation, the recommended approach for vinyl rolls is to use a loose-lay installation for areas under 50 m² (538 ft²) and a glued-down installation for areas 50 m² and greater.

Loose-Lay Installation (Under 50 m²)

For small to medium-sized spaces, the loose-lay method is preferred due to its simplicity and minimal material requirements. This method involves the following steps:

1. Preparation of the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is flat, clean, dry, and free from debris. Any irregularities in the subfloor must be addressed before installation.

2. Unrolling the Vinyl Roll: Lay the vinyl roll directly over the subfloor, removing any packaging or protective layers. Begin installation from one corner of the room, ideally starting from the area furthest from the doorway to allow for a seamless extension.

3. Cutting to Size: Measure the room dimensions and cut the vinyl roll to fit the floor area precisely. If necessary, use straight and curved-blade knives to make clean, straight cuts.

4. Securing the Flooring: For areas up to 50 m², no glue is required due to the ICONIK foam backing. However, if securing is needed for stability:

   • Apply double-sided duct tape around the perimeter of the floor, ensuring the edges are firmly fastened.
   • Use double-sided tape under joints to reinforce seams and improve the longevity of the installation.

5. Finishing Touches:

   • Use a roller to press the flooring into place, ensuring even adherence.
   • If the surface is larger than 50 m², or if seams are visible and require sealing, follow the cold-welding process as described in the following section.

Cold-Welding Sealing (Optional)

Cold welding is recommended for sealing seams in vinyl rolls to improve durability and prevent lifting, especially in cases where the seams are long or the area is subject to moderate to high foot traffic.

1. Applying the Welding Solution:

   • Insert the welding needle into the joint between two sections.
   • Squeeze the application tube gently to allow a continuous flow of solution along the seam.

2. Drying and Taping Removal:

   • Allow the seam to dry for at least 10 minutes.
   • Carefully remove the masking tape applied during the sealing process.

3. Final Check:

   • Ensure the vinyl roll is taut and free from wrinkles or bubbles.
   • Confirm that the installation feels stable and the surface is smooth.

Glued-Down Installation for Larger Areas (50 m² and Over)

When covering areas equal to or larger than 50 m², the glued-down method becomes necessary. This method ensures the flooring remains firmly in place under increased strain and is recommended for commercial or high-traffic residential environments.

1. Subfloor Preparation:

   • The surface must be dry, flat, and level, and may require a skim coat or leveling compound to correct any irregularities.

2. Application of Adhesive:

   • Use a water-based spray adhesive, such as Tarkospray, an eco-friendly solution offered by Tarkett.
   • Apply the adhesive in an even, consistent manner, following the instructions provided with the product.

3. Securing the Vinyl Roll:

   • Immediately after adhesive application, lay the vinyl roll onto the subfloor.
   • Begin from the wall and work inward, smoothing out the flooring as you go.

4. Trimming and Finishing:

   • Cut the vinyl roll at the perimeter of the room, and apply trim edging if necessary.
   • Use a roller to press the flooring into the adhesive and remove any air pockets.
   • Allow the adhesive to cure for the duration specified by the manufacturer.

Recommended Products for Easy Self-Installation

Tarkett emphasizes the ease of DIY installation and offers specific products designed for user convenience. Among these, the Starfloor Click Ultimate Rigid LVT is recognized as one of the most accessible options for self-installers.

1. Starfloor Click Ultimate Rigid LVT:

   • Utilizes the i4F triple click system, an intuitive and secure locking mechanism that allows for quick and accurate installation.
   • Installation involves dropping, locking, and clicking each plank into position without the need for extra fasteners or adhesives.
   • Ideal for both residential and commercial applications, especially where minimal dust and quick turnaround are required.

2. Vinyl Rolls with Full Loose-Lay Installation:

   • Certain vinyl rolls within Tarkett’s product range support full loose-lay installation, meaning they can be directly unrolled and cut to size without additional steps.
   • The foam or textile backing is designed to adjust to small subfloor imperfections, making installation more forgiving for less experienced users.
   • Recommended for areas under 50 m² where a DIY approach is feasible.

Environmental Considerations and Recycling Programs

Tarkett includes eco-friendly options in its installation methods and flooring materials, focusing on recycling and sustainable practices. Specifically:

• ICONIK vinyl rolls with foam backing allow for recycling without the use of adhesives in areas under 50 m². This makes them suitable for the ReStart® Ready program, a recycling initiative by Tarkett.
• ReStart® Recycling Program:
  • Installers of eligible products can collect used vinyl flooring and send it to designated recycling centers.
  • To participate, users must register with their local Tarkett offices, as terms may vary by region.
  • This initiative supports circular economy practices by redirecting post-consumer and post-industrial waste into new materials and products.

Recommended Tools for Installation

Whether using the loose-lay or glued-down method, a set of standard tools is necessary to ensure a smooth and accurate installation process. The following tools are listed in the documentation and should be gathered beforehand:

1. Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and adhesives.
2. Measuring Tape and Pencil: For accurate layout and cutting.
3. Straight- and Curved-Blade Knives: Used for precise cutting of vinyl rolls and planks.
4. Double-Sided and Duct Tape: Essential for securing edges and seams in loose-lay methods.
5. Roller: To compress the flooring and remove air pockets or wrinkles.
6. PVC Cold-Welding Kit:
   • Includes a specially designed welding solution and application tool for sealing joints.
   • Ideal for larger projects or areas with visible seams.

Additional Tips for Optimal Installation

1. Choosing the Right Installation Direction:

   • For vinyl plank flooring, it is generally recommended to lay the planks in the direction of the main lighting source, such as a window. This creates a natural and seamless flow across the room.
   • Alternatively, laying planks along the length of the room helps to disguise any small irregularities in the subfloor and provides an elongated aesthetic.

2. Environmental Conditions:

   • Allow newly installed flooring to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 24 hours before proceeding with installation.
   • Avoid installing vinyl flooring in spaces where temperature fluctuations or high humidity are common, such as near external walls or in unvented basements, unless the product is specifically rated for such conditions.

3. Subfloor Compatibility:

   • Tarkett’s vinyl flooring is designed to install over concrete, wood, or self-leveling underlays, provided the subfloor is dry, flat, and level.
   • If using a foam-backed vinyl product, it may offer additional flexibility over minor subfloor defects, reducing the need for prior leveling.

4. Professional Help:

   • While many Tarkett vinyl flooring options are designed for DIY installation, larger or complex projects are best handled by certified installers. Tarkett offers support through its sales network to locate professionally trained installation partners.

Summary of Key Product Lines and Installation Methods

These installation methods reflect Tarkett's commitment to providing a versatile and sustainable flooring solution that is both user-friendly and adaptable to a wide range of applications.

Conclusion

Tarkett offers a comprehensive range of vinyl flooring products suitable for both residential and commercial settings, paired with robust and method-specific installation guidelines. The loose-lay option is ideal for small to medium-sized spaces, while larger areas over 50 m² benefit from the stability of a glued-down method. The use of Tarkett's i4F triple click system in products like the Starfloor Click Ultimate simplifies the self-installation process and reduces reliance on adhesives. Additionally, the ICONIK foam and textile-backed vinyl rolls highlight Tarkett's focus on sustainability through recycling programs like ReStart®. By following the outlined steps and using the recommended tools, users can ensure a smooth, long-lasting installation that aligns with both functional and environmental standards.

Sources

1. Installation Guides - Tarkett Commercial
2. How to Install Tarkett Vinyl Flooring
3. How to Install Tarkett Vinyl Flooring
4. Vinyl Flooring Installation Guidance - Middle East