Interface flooring installations utilize a variety of adhesives and systems designed for both traditional and glue-free applications. The selection of appropriate materials and methods depends on substrate conditions, flooring type (carpet tile or LVT), and desired performance characteristics. This article details the adhesive options, moisture mitigation strategies, and installation systems available for Interface flooring products, based on provided documentation.
Adhesive Options for Interface Flooring
Several adhesive products are specified for use with Interface flooring, each offering distinct properties and application guidelines. XL 3800 is a firm-setting acrylic adhesive designed for permanent bonding, offering good workability with an extended open time of up to 30 minutes. It is suitable for installations subject to heavy point and rolling loads and features low odor and fungal resistance. Application rates for XL 3800 vary based on substrate porosity, ranging from 220-260 sq ft per gallon over non-porous floors to 160-180 sq ft per gallon over porous floors, utilizing a 1/16” x 1/32”x 1/32” U-Notch trowel.
XL Adhesive 2000 Plus is another acrylic adhesive formulated for high shear and peel strength. This non-staining adhesive contains Interface’s Intersept™ preservative, enhancing resistance to mold and mildew. The recommended spread rate for XL Adhesive 2000 Plus is 350-400 sq ft per gallon when applied with a 3/8" nap roller, or 220-260 sq ft per gallon using a 1/16" x 1/32" x 1/32" U notch trowel.
XL HM99 High Moisture Adhesive is a high-strength adhesive specifically designed for porous substrates. It offers extended open time, fast dry time, and ease of application, along with outstanding water resistance. Its low odor makes it suitable for occupied buildings. The spread rate for XL HM99 is 350-400 sq ft per gallon with a 3/8” nap roller or 220-260 sq ft per gallon with a 1/16” x 1/32”x 1/32” U-Notch trowel.
XL Adhesive 2500 Plus shares similar properties with XL Adhesive 2000 Plus, providing high shear and peel strength, non-staining characteristics, and mold/mildew resistance due to the Intersept™ preservative. It is applied at a rate of 350-400 sq ft per gallon using a 3/8" nap roller.
Moisture Mitigation with RH95 and TriSeal
Moisture control is critical for successful Interface flooring installations. RH95 is an aqueous acrylic polymer approved exclusively for use with Interface flooring. It functions as both a penetrating and film-forming polymer, protecting installations against moisture readings up to 95% relative humidity (RH), moisture vapor emission rates up to 10 lbs, and a pH of 11.0. RH95 is applied with a 3/8” nap roller at a rate of 350-400 sq ft per gallon.
TriSeal is another acrylic polymer compound designed to isolate old cutback adhesive residues that could discolor or affect the bond of new flooring. It provides a clean surface for better adhesive bonds, particularly when dealing with reactive asphalt-based cutback adhesives. TriSeal is applied with a 3/8” nap roller at a rate of 315 – 360 sq ft per gallon.
The TacTiles™ Glue-Free Installation System
Interface offers a glue-free installation system utilizing TacTiles™ adhesive squares. These squares adhere tiles to one another, creating a "floating" floor. This system eliminates the need for liquid adhesives, resulting in virtually zero VOCs and odor. A roll of 500 TacTiles™ connectors covers approximately 125 square yards, assuming a "Full Spread" installation (every corner). 9511 is specifically designed for use only with the TacTiles installation system and functions as an aqueous acrylic polymer to protect against high moisture and pH levels. It is applied with a 3/8” nap roller at a rate of 315 - 450 sq ft per gallon.
Installation Considerations for Different Flooring Types
The documentation indicates that both carpet tile and LVT installations can benefit from the use of RH95 for moisture protection. However, the TacTiles™ system and 9511 are specifically warranted for use with Interface carpet tile and LVT. The choice between adhesive and glue-free installation depends on project requirements and substrate conditions. Adhesive options provide a permanent bond, while TacTiles™ offer flexibility and ease of replacement.
Adhesive Specifications Summary
The following table summarizes the spread rates for the adhesives discussed:
| Adhesive | Trowel Notch | Spread Rate (sq ft/gallon) | Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| XL 3800 | 1/16” x 1/32”x 1/32” U-Notch | 220-260 (non-porous) | Trowel |
| XL 3800 | 1/16” x 1/16” x 1/16” SQ-Notch | 160-180 (porous) | Trowel |
| XL Adhesive 2000 Plus | 1/16" x 1/32" x 1/32" U notch | 220-260 | Trowel |
| XL Adhesive 2000 Plus | 3/8" nap roller | 350-400 | Roller |
| XL HM99 | 1/16” x 1/32”x 1/32” U-Notch | 220-260 | Trowel |
| XL HM99 | 3/8” nap roller | 350-400 | Roller |
| XL Adhesive 2500 Plus | 3/8" nap roller | 350-400 | Roller |
| RH95 | 3/8” nap roller | 350-400 | Roller |
| TriSeal | 3/8” nap roller | 315 – 360 | Roller |
| 9511 | 3/8” nap roller | 315 - 450 | Roller |
| TacTiles™ | N/A (glue-free) | 125 sq yd/roll | Adhesive Squares |
Considerations for Substrate Preparation
Proper substrate preparation is essential for a successful Interface flooring installation. The documentation highlights the importance of removing old cutback adhesive, particularly asphalt-based adhesives, which can react with vinyl back flooring. TriSeal can be used to isolate remaining cutback residue after removal. Porous concrete substrates require treatment with RH95 to mitigate moisture issues.
Conclusion
Interface flooring installations offer a range of options, from traditional adhesive applications to the innovative TacTiles™ glue-free system. Selecting the appropriate adhesive, implementing moisture mitigation strategies with products like RH95 and TriSeal, and ensuring proper substrate preparation are crucial for achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. The documentation emphasizes the importance of using Interface-approved products and following recommended application guidelines for optimal performance and warranty coverage.