Marmoleum Click flooring presents a versatile flooring option constructed from linoleum, featuring a click-together installation system similar to laminate flooring. This guide details the installation process, preparation requirements, and important considerations based on available documentation.
Preparing for Installation
Prior to commencing installation, acclimation of the Marmoleum Click flooring is crucial. Boxes should remain in the installation environment for a minimum of three days to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity. Failure to allow for acclimation may result in buckling after installation. Maintaining a room temperature of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended during acclimation and installation.
The subfloor requires careful preparation. It must be firm and level to ensure a successful installation. If the subfloor is uneven, self-leveling compound should be used to create a smooth, stable surface. Moisture testing of all substrates is also advised, and an effective moisture barrier should be present for ground-based level floors. The substrate’s flatness is critical; a maximum deviation of 5mm is permissible under a 2m straight edge, and 1mm under a 20cm straight edge.
Before beginning, it is important to verify the received materials. Boxes should be checked to confirm the correct color, batch number, and quantity, and to ensure the material is in good condition. Claims for incorrect color or obvious damage may not be accepted if the material has already been fitted.
Installation Process
The installation of Marmoleum Click flooring is designed to be a “floating” installation, meaning it does not require adhesive. However, the use of Forbo Click underlay is recommended for all loose lay installations. The flooring can be installed one panel at a time utilizing the tongue and groove locking system.
The initial row requires modification. The tongue should be cut off the wall end of the first board. Additionally, the long tongue on the remaining boards in that row should also be removed. A board is then pressed into the short groove on the narrow side, allowing it to click into place.
Subsequent rows follow a similar process. After placing the second-to-last board, the row should be slid up to 10mm from the wall. Spacers, measuring 10mm, should be placed at both the long and short ends of the row to maintain the expansion gap. The distance between the end of the row and the wall is then measured, subtracting 10mm from the result. This measurement is marked on a board, which is then cut to size.
The row can then be gently pulled away from the wall, and the final piece of Marmoleum Click is placed, utilizing a temporary board for leverage. The row is then slid back towards the wall, maintaining the 10mm spacers at both ends. The next row is started by placing a leftover board from the previous row, positioned 10mm from the wall. This process is repeated to complete the installation of the room.
Important Considerations
Marmoleum Click flooring can be installed in most locations without adhesive, but the maximum surface area for a single installation without expansion joints is 150 square meters. Maintaining a 10mm gap around the perimeter of the room is essential to allow for expansion due to temperature and humidity changes, preventing buckling.
The flooring is compatible with underfloor heating systems, provided the maximum surface temperature of the substrate does not exceed 27°C under any condition of use.
Conclusion
Installing Forbo Marmoleum Click flooring involves careful preparation of the subfloor, proper acclimation of the materials, and precise execution of the click-together installation process. Adhering to the recommended guidelines regarding expansion gaps and temperature limitations will ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.