Mohawk RevWood stands out in the world of laminate flooring for its innovative design, durability, and ease of installation. Specifically engineered for both residential and commercial use, RevWood combines waterproof protection, scratch resistance, and a wide range of aesthetic options. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or working with a professional, installing RevWood requires careful preparation and an understanding of the product’s unique features. This guide outlines the step-by-step process of installing RevWood flooring, including essential tools, subfloor requirements, layout planning, and finishing touches.
Understanding Mohawk RevWood Flooring
RevWood is a premium line of laminate flooring from Mohawk Industries, designed to provide both visual appeal and long-term performance. The product line includes four distinct tiers—RevWood Essentials, RevWood Select, RevWood Plus, and RevWood Premier—each offering different levels of protection, durability, and style options.
- RevWood Essentials is ideal for budget-conscious users, providing basic scratch and fade resistance but not waterproof protection.
- RevWood Select builds on Essentials with 10 years of waterproof protection and a pet-friendly warranty, making it suitable for households with pets or moisture-prone areas.
- RevWood Plus offers a wider selection of styles and includes lifetime waterproof and pet protection, along with steam and wet mopping safety.
- RevWood Premier is the top-tier offering, featuring maximum scratch resistance, antimicrobial protection, and wet-protect waterproofing. It is best suited for luxury installations where durability and aesthetics are paramount.
Each tier uses the Uniclic® locking system, which allows for fast, secure, and tool-free installation. This system is one of the key reasons why RevWood is a popular choice among DIY installers and professionals alike.
Preparing for Installation
Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to gather the necessary tools and materials and prepare the subfloor to ensure a smooth and long-lasting installation.
Tools and Materials
The following items are required for a successful RevWood installation:
- Measuring tape: For accurate layout and cutting.
- Utility knife: For cutting planks to size.
- Tapping block: To gently tap planks into place without damaging them.
- Pull bar: To help align and secure planks during installation.
- Spacer wedges: To maintain expansion gaps along walls.
- Underlayment: Required for certain RevWood collections or subfloor types.
- Safety glasses: To protect eyes during cutting.
- RevWood planks: Ensure you have 10% extra planks to account for waste and cutting errors.
Subfloor Requirements
The subfloor must meet specific criteria to ensure proper installation and long-term performance of the RevWood flooring:
- Clean: The subfloor must be free of debris, dust, and any residual construction materials.
- Level: Uneven areas should not exceed 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span. If dips or bumps exist, they should be addressed with a leveling compound.
- Dry: The subfloor must be completely dry to prevent issues with the underlayment and flooring.
- Stable: The subfloor should not flex or sag underfoot. Any movement could compromise the integrity of the installed flooring.
Acclimation
Before installation, the RevWood planks should be acclimated to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours. This step is crucial to prevent warping or gapping after installation. The planks should remain unopened during this period to maintain their structural integrity.
Installation Process
The installation of RevWood laminate flooring follows a structured approach to ensure a professional and durable result. The process is divided into several key steps, including underlayment installation, layout planning, first row installation, continuing the installation, and finishing touches.
Installing the Underlayment
If the manufacturer’s instructions or subfloor type require underlayment, it should be installed before beginning the RevWood planks. Underlayment serves as a moisture barrier and provides a smooth, even surface for the flooring. It should be laid out in the direction of the installation and secured according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Starting the Installation
Begin the installation at the longest wall in the room to ensure a balanced layout. Place spacer wedges along the wall to maintain an expansion gap of 3/8 inch. The expansion gap is essential to allow for natural expansion and contraction of the flooring due to temperature and humidity changes.
Use the Uniclic® locking system to connect the short ends of the planks together. Start with the first row, ensuring that the planks are aligned properly and locked securely.
Measuring and Cutting the First Row
The last plank in the first row will need to be cut to fit snugly against the wall while maintaining the expansion gap. Use a measuring tape and utility knife to make a precise cut. After cutting, use the tapping block and pull bar to ensure the plank is securely connected to the adjacent planks.
Continuing the Installation
Once the first row is complete, begin the second row by cutting the first plank to a different length than the last plank in the first row. This staggered pattern helps create a more natural and visually appealing look. Continue clicking the planks together using the Uniclic® system, ensuring that each connection is secure and properly aligned.
When installing around obstacles such as door frames or baseboards, use the tapping block and pull bar to maneuver the planks into place. Some planks may need to be cut to fit precisely around these features.
Completing the Last Row
The last row of planks will also require cutting to fit the remaining space while maintaining the expansion gap. Measure and cut the planks accordingly, using the tapping block and pull bar to ensure secure connections. This row should be installed with the same level of precision as the previous rows to maintain a seamless appearance.
Installing Moldings and Trim
Once the flooring is installed, remove the spacer wedges from the perimeter and install moldings and trim as needed. Transition strips, quarter rounds, and other moldings can be used to finish the edges and doorways, ensuring a polished and professional look.
Finishing Touches
After the installation is complete, the final steps involve cleaning and inspection. Use a damp mop and manufacturer-approved cleaning products to remove any dust or debris from the surface. It is important to avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the flooring.
Once the flooring is clean, take a step back to admire your work. A well-installed RevWood floor should look seamless, with even rows and secure connections.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity and appearance of your RevWood flooring, proper maintenance is essential. Regular cleaning with a damp mop and manufacturer-approved products will help keep the floor looking new. Avoid excessive moisture, as even waterproof RevWood can be damaged by prolonged exposure.
For pet owners, selecting a RevWood tier with the All Pet Warranty provides additional peace of mind. This warranty covers scratches, stains, and damage caused by pets, making it an ideal choice for households with animals.
Warranty and Guarantees
Mohawk offers comprehensive warranty coverage for RevWood flooring, depending on the tier selected. The All Pet Warranty is available for RevWood Plus and Premier tiers, providing protection against pet-related damage. Additionally, the WetProtect warranty ensures that the flooring is resistant to water damage for the duration of its use.
These warranties reflect the confidence Mohawk has in the quality and durability of RevWood. By selecting the appropriate tier for your needs, you can ensure that your investment is protected for years to come.
Conclusion
Mohawk RevWood flooring is a testament to the advancements in laminate flooring technology, offering a blend of durability, style, and ease of installation. With its Uniclic® locking system, RevWood is designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals, making it a versatile option for a wide range of applications. The product line’s four tiers provide different levels of protection and aesthetics, allowing users to choose the best fit for their needs.
By following the outlined installation process and adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines, users can achieve a professional-looking finish that will stand the test of time. Whether installed in a home, office, or commercial space, RevWood is a reliable and stylish choice that meets the demands of modern living.