Mannington ADURA®Rigid is a high-performance luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile (LVT) flooring solution designed for durability, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. This product features a solid plastic core (SPC) that provides exceptional stability and resistance to indentation, making it ideal for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, home gyms, and family rooms. ADURA®Rigid is also waterproof and resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, making it a versatile option for both residential and commercial spaces.
This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process, care instructions, and maintenance practices specific to ADURA®Rigid flooring, based on the manufacturer’s official documentation and product specifications. The focus is on ensuring users understand how to properly install and maintain their floors to maximize longevity and appearance.
Overview of ADURA®Rigid Features
ADURA®Rigid is a floating floor made with a solid polymer core, which offers several advantages over traditional luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and engineered hardwood. According to the documentation, ADURA®Rigid is:
- Waterproof: Resistant to water damage, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- Scratch-Resistant: Features a premium wear layer and ScratchResist® technology that helps protect against surface scratches.
- Durable and Stable: The solid plastic core provides superior indentation resistance and is unaffected by wide temperature ranges.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal cleaning and is Steam Mop Approved.
- Microban® Surface Protection: Built-in antimicrobial protection that helps reduce the growth of bacteria and keeps the floor cleaner.
- FloorScore® Certified: Complies with strict indoor air quality standards, making it a safe and healthy flooring option.
These features make ADURA®Rigid a suitable choice for both residential and commercial environments. It can be installed over existing hard surface floors, including ceramic tile with grout lines, and does not require acclimation prior to installation.
Installation Requirements and Preparation
Proper installation is crucial for ensuring the performance and longevity of ADURA®Rigid flooring. The following are key preparation steps and requirements based on the manufacturer's guidelines.
1. Subfloor Requirements
The subfloor must be:
- Clean: Free of dust, debris, and any loose materials.
- Dry: Must be dry to the touch and free from excess moisture. A hygrometer can be used to verify moisture levels.
- Level: The floor should be level with a maximum deviation of 1/8 inch in 10 feet. If the subfloor is uneven, a self-leveling compound may be necessary.
- Stable: Must be structurally sound and free from movement or flexing.
- Hard Surface Compatible: ADURA®Rigid can be installed over ceramic tile, concrete, or other hard surfaces that do not flex or shift.
The manufacturer does not require the floor to be acclimated before installation, which is a significant advantage over traditional LVT or engineered hardwood.
2. Tools and Materials
The following tools and materials are necessary for installation:
- Mannington ADURA®Rigid planks or tiles
- Underlayment (if recommended by the manufacturer)
- Tape measure
- Chalk line
- Carpenter’s pencil
- Straight edge or T-square
- Mallet or rubber hammer
- Pull bar (for planks)
- Cleats or spacers
- Utility knife
- Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses)
No adhesive is required, as the product is a floating floor.
3. Room Layout and Starting Point
To ensure a straight and even installation, the layout should be planned before beginning. The recommended approach is:
- Find the center of the room by measuring diagonally from corner to corner.
- Establish a reference line using a chalk line. This line serves as a guide for laying the first row of planks or tiles.
- Begin installation from the reference line, working outward in a straight pattern. This helps prevent the planks or tiles from becoming crooked or uneven.
For rooms with irregular shapes, it is advisable to create a layout plan on paper first.
4. Expansion Gaps
While ADURA®Rigid is stable and does not require acclimation, it is still recommended to allow for expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room. This includes:
- Walls
- Door frames
- Appliances
- Heating or cooling vents
Expansion gaps are typically maintained using spacers or cleats. These gaps allow for any slight movement in the floor and prevent buckling or warping.
5. Installing the First Row
The first row of planks or tiles should be installed with spacers to maintain the expansion gap. The following steps are recommended:
- Snap the first plank or tile into place using the click system.
- Continue snapping each plank or tile into the previous one until the row is complete.
- Trim the last plank or tile to fit the space between the end of the row and the wall.
- Use a pull bar or mallet to ensure a tight fit between planks or tiles.
For planks, a pull bar is especially useful for ensuring the locking system is fully engaged.
6. Subsequent Rows
After the first row is installed, subsequent rows should be placed at a 90-degree angle to the first. The process is as follows:
- Slide the next plank or tile into the groove of the previous row.
- Ensure the lock is fully engaged by pressing down firmly.
- Trim the last plank or tile as needed to fit the space.
- Use a mallet or pull bar if the lock does not engage easily.
It is important to work in small sections to ensure the planks or tiles remain aligned and do not shift during installation.
7. Transition and Thresholds
When installing ADURA®Rigid in different rooms or over thresholds, the following should be considered:
- Use transition strips to bridge different floor types or heights.
- Install thresholds at doorways to provide a smooth transition between rooms.
- Ensure the transition is level and does not create a tripping hazard.
The manufacturer does not specify the type of transition or threshold to use, but standard wood or vinyl transition strips are typically appropriate.
Maintenance and Care for ADURA®Rigid Floors
ADURA®Rigid is designed for low-maintenance cleaning and long-term durability. Proper care and maintenance will help preserve the appearance and performance of the floor.
1. Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the floor’s appearance and preventing the buildup of dirt or debris. The manufacturer recommends the following:
- Sweep the floor at least once per week using a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment.
- Use doormats at all entrances to reduce the amount of dirt, grit, and debris tracked onto the floor.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining or water damage.
The use of rubber-backed or latex-backed mats should be avoided, as they can stain or damage the floor’s surface.
2. Mopping
Mopping should be done when necessary, particularly in high-traffic areas or when dirt has accumulated. The manufacturer recommends the following:
- Use a solution of 2 to 3 capfuls of Mannington Award Series® Rinse-Free Cleaner in one gallon of warm water.
- Use a soft, white cloth or microfiber mop to avoid scratching the surface.
- Avoid using soap, detergent, or wax, as these can leave a dulling film on the floor.
- Rinsing is not required when using Mannington Award Series® Rinse-Free Cleaner, but if time allows, rinsing with clean water will provide optimal results.
Steam mopping is also approved for ADURA®Rigid, but it should only be used for killing germs, viruses, and mold. No steam mopping should be done for cleaning purposes.
3. Stain Removal
ADURA®Rigid is highly stain-resistant, but some substances may require special treatment. The manufacturer provides the following guidance for stain removal:
- For food, beverages, and gummy substances, scrape off excess with a dull knife, then clean with Mannington Award Series® Heavy Duty Cleaner and Stripper using a soft nylon pad or brush. A bleach solution can be used for stubborn stains, but the area should be rinsed and dried after treatment.
- For tar, oil, asphalt, grease, wax, or oil-based paint, scrape off the excess and clean with Mannington Award Series® Heavy Duty Cleaner and Stripper.
- For scuffs, marks, or scratches, wipe with a clean, white cloth dampened with lighter fluid, painter’s naphtha, or isopropyl alcohol.
It is important to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility with the floor.
4. Protecting the Floor from Damage
To prevent scratches, indentations, and other forms of wear, the following precautions are recommended:
- Use wide-bearing, non-staining floor protectors under furniture. These should be at least one inch in diameter and made of non-pigmented hard plastic or non-staining felt.
- Avoid narrow dome furniture rests, as they can concentrate pressure and cause indentations.
- Use wood or hardboard runways when moving heavy furniture or appliances across the floor. This prevents direct contact and reduces the risk of scratches or dents.
- Avoid using casters or wheels without proper floor protectors, especially for heavy objects.
Metal protectors should be rust-proof to prevent staining or corrosion.
5. Long-Term Protection
For long-term protection and appearance, the manufacturer recommends the following:
- Apply a high-gloss polish if a shiny finish is desired. Mannington Award Series® High-Gloss Polish is recommended. However, polish should not be used with wax or buffed.
- Avoid using wax-based products, as they can leave a residue and dull the surface.
- After multiple applications of polish, an occasional stripping and reapplication may be necessary to restore the finish.
Polish should be applied in thin, even coats and allowed to dry between applications.
Conclusion
Mannington ADURA®Rigid is a durable, low-maintenance flooring solution that is well-suited for a wide range of residential and commercial applications. Its solid plastic core provides exceptional stability and indentation resistance, while its waterproof and scratch-resistant properties make it ideal for high-traffic areas. The installation process is straightforward and does not require acclimation, making it a convenient option for DIY users and professional installers alike.
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the floor’s appearance and performance. Regular sweeping, occasional mopping with the manufacturer-recommended cleaner, and prompt stain removal will help keep the floor looking new for years. Additionally, using appropriate floor protectors and avoiding abrasive materials will minimize the risk of scratches and indentations.
By following the installation and maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer, users can ensure that their ADURA®Rigid floors remain in excellent condition and provide long-term value.