Mannington’s ADURA Max is a high-performance waterproof flooring solution designed for both indoor and under-structure applications. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the installation process, technical specifications, and best practices based on the official installation guide. It is intended for U.S. consumers, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals seeking accurate, actionable information to ensure a successful and durable installation.
ADURA Max is marketed as a completely waterproof product suitable for residential and commercial spaces. The flooring is produced in both the U.S. and Asia, with specific instructions to avoid mixing products from different countries of origin. The installation process requires careful preparation, adherence to environmental conditions, and attention to subfloor specifications.
Below is a comprehensive overview of the installation procedure, including acclimation requirements, subfloor preparation, layout techniques, expansion considerations, and finishing touches.
Acclimation and Environmental Considerations
Before installation, it is essential to allow the ADURA Max flooring to acclimate to the ambient conditions of the installation site. According to the manufacturer’s guidelines, the room and flooring should be allowed to adjust to a stable temperature range between 55°F and 90°F for a minimum of 48 hours. This period should be maintained both before and during installation to minimize the risk of expansion, contraction, or warping.
However, if the HVAC system is operational and the temperature difference between the storage environment and the installation site is within 15°F, acclimation is not required. This provides flexibility for installations in controlled environments where temperature stability is already maintained.
The flooring must not be exposed to temperatures exceeding 140°F, as this can cause thermal expansion and potential buckling or delamination. Additionally, direct sunlight should be avoided for prolonged periods, as it can lead to fading, discoloration, and excessive heat buildup. For spaces with significant sunlight exposure, the manufacturer recommends using an ADURA Max glue option or ensuring that curtains and blinds are used to protect the floor.
Subfloor Preparation
ADURA Max is installed as a floating floor, meaning it is not adhered to the subfloor. However, the preparation of the subfloor remains a critical step in ensuring a successful and long-lasting installation. The subfloor must be flat, smooth, and dimensionally stable. Specifically, it should be within 3/16” in 10 feet and 1/32” in 12 inches. Any irregularities in the subfloor can telegraph through the new flooring, resulting in an uneven surface and accelerated wear.
Wood subfloors must be free from deflection and properly secured. If existing flooring is present, it should be non-cushioned, fully adhered, and not exceed one layer in thickness. The manufacturer explicitly advises against installing ADURA Max over carpet or residual asphalt-type (cut back) adhesives. Any residual adhesive must be completely removed, and the surface should be covered with underlayment plywood or a high-quality latex underlayment.
For concrete subfloors, the following conditions must be met:
- The concrete must be dry and fully cured. New concrete slabs should be at least six weeks old.
- According to ASTM F1869, the moisture emission from the subfloor should not exceed 8 lbs. per 1,000 sq. ft. per 24 hours, as measured by the calcium chloride test.
- If using the ASTM F2170 In Situ Relative Humidity Test, the relative humidity should not exceed 85%.
- Mannington explicitly states that it will not assume responsibility for floor covering failure caused by hydrostatic pressure or moisture vapor emission. Excessive moisture can create an environment conducive to mold, mildew, and fungal growth, which can degrade the indoor air quality.
The subfloor must also be free from depressions such as holes, grooves, and control joints. These areas must be filled using a high-quality cementitious patching and leveling compound, ensuring a smooth and even surface.
Installation Process
ADURA Max is designed to be installed using an angle/angle installation method, which provides superior joint strength and a seamless appearance. The product is not intended to be installed using alternative methods, and the manufacturer emphasizes that the locking system should only be engaged in this manner.
Before beginning the installation, the work area should be cleaned and cleared of any tools or materials that may damage the finished flooring. The manufacturer recommends mixing and installing product from several different cartons to achieve maximum visual variation. However, it is crucial to ensure that all planks are from the same country of origin, as mixing products from the U.S. and Asia is not recommended.
Plank Layout
Proper planning and layout are essential to achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing installation. The manufacturer advises laying the long dimension of the plank parallel to the long dimension of the work area. This helps prevent issues with narrow plank widths at wall junctures or very short length pieces.
To determine the centerline of the room, accurate measurements should be taken. This line should then be adjusted to accommodate a balanced layout and transposed to a comfortable width away from the starting wall—approximately 2 to 3 feet. This approach helps ensure symmetry and minimizes the visibility of seams or irregularities.
Expansion Considerations
ADURA Max is a floating floor, and as such, it must be allowed to move freely to accommodate natural expansion and contraction. A minimum 1/4” expansion gap is recommended around the perimeter of the room to prevent buckling or damage. This gap should be maintained without any pinch points, and care should be taken when installing wall moldings and transition strips to avoid fastening through the product.
For rooms larger than 50 linear feet in either direction or exceeding 2,500 square feet in total area, additional expansion considerations may be necessary. The manufacturer recommends using transition strips at substrate changes, room-to-room environment changes, or in complex layouts.
Finishing and Transition Strips
Once the installation is complete, all exposed edges of the ADURA Max flooring should be protected using wall moldings, transition strips, or other appropriate trim. The manufacturer provides a list of available transitions specifically designed for ADURA Max:
- T-molding: Used to finish flooring that adjoins the same level.
- Reducer: Used to finish flooring where two level surfaces meet.
- Flush/overlap Stairnose: Used to finish landings or steps.
- End Cap: Used to finish flooring at a vertical obstruction such as a sliding door, bathtub, or carpet.
- Quarter Round: Nailed directly to the baseboard.
Silicone caulking should be used to seal transitions along tubs, toilet flanges, and other fixtures. This helps prevent water intrusion and ensures a durable and watertight installation.
Repairing Damaged Planks
ADURA Max is a durable product, but in the event of damage, repairs can be performed. If the damaged plank is located near the perimeter, it can be removed by disconnecting the adjacent planks and replacing the damaged section. If the plank is in the middle of the room and cannot be easily removed, a repair method is outlined in the installation guide:
- Use a circular saw or multi-tool to cut out the center of the damaged plank, leaving approximately a 1-inch strip attached to the surrounding material.
- Carefully cut back from the corners of the plank to the inside edge, ensuring that the remaining edges remain intact.
- Replace the damaged section with a new plank, matching the layout and orientation of the surrounding planks.
It is important to note that any repairs should be performed with care to avoid damaging adjacent planks or compromising the integrity of the installation.
Maintenance and Care
After installation, the ADURA Max flooring should be cleaned with a damp mop to remove residual surface dirt. The manufacturer recommends following a regular maintenance schedule using Mannington Ultra Clean, a product specifically designed for this flooring.
Direct sunlight should be avoided for prolonged periods, as it can cause fading, discoloration, and thermal expansion. The manufacturer advises closing curtains or blinds in areas where extreme sunlight exposure is a concern. Additionally, the flooring should be protected from exposure to excessive moisture, as this can lead to mold, mildew, and other issues.
Warranty and Registration
Mannington provides limited warranties for ADURA Max, but these do not cover damage caused by mold, mildew, flooding, leaking plumbing or appliances, or water entering through sliding glass doors. The manufacturer emphasizes that the final responsibility for determining the suitability of the subfloor lies with the installer.
To ensure proper warranty coverage, the manufacturer recommends registering the new floor at Mannington.com/Register. This also provides an opportunity to enter a chance to win $100.
Conclusion
Mannington ADURA Max is a high-performance waterproof flooring solution that requires careful preparation, attention to environmental conditions, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. The installation process involves acclimating the flooring, preparing the subfloor, laying out the planks, and ensuring proper expansion and finishing. With the right tools, techniques, and attention to detail, ADURA Max can provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing floor for both residential and commercial applications.
For additional support, users are encouraged to consult the official installation guide or contact Mannington’s Customer Care team at 800-356-6787. Detailed technical information and updates are also available on the manufacturer’s website at www.Mannington.com.