Site Requirements

This product serves as a robust floor covering and is not designed for use as structural material. To ensure proper installation, this product requires a clean, dry, and secure subfloor that adheres to building codes. It's important to note that the subsequent requirements are not meant to override federal, state, or local building codes. However, similar to various interior finishing products, these requirements might call for adjustments to existing structural elements for successful installation. The responsibility for complying with all building codes lies with the owner. The flooring is appropriate for indoor installations within a climate-controlled environment (with relative humidity between 35-65% and temperature ranging from 60-85°F). It should not be installed in rooms containing floor drains or sump pumps. Whether above, on, or below ground level, this floor can be installed. Before installation, it is highly recommended to perform a moisture test on the subfloor to ascertain the presence of excessive moisture. In the case of concrete subfloors, a calcium chloride moisture test (ASTM F1869) should yield values of ≤ 5 lbs/1000ft²/24-hr or <80% RH when using an in situ probe (ASTM F2170). Wood subfloors should have moisture readings of ≤ 12%.

Throughout the lifespan of the flooring, it's crucial to maintain acceptable job site conditions, which encompass relative humidity and subfloor moisture levels. Installation of this flooring involves creating a floating floor arrangement. For doorways less than 32 inches (0.81m) wide, or if the installation changes direction at a doorway (regardless of its size), and in rooms spanning 98.4 linear feet or more in length or width, T-moldings must be utilized. It's essential to prevent floor movement from being restricted by means of glue, nails, screws, hardware, or any other fixed obstructions.

Site and Material Preparation

A. Eliminate carpet and padding, as well as any wood flooring placed over concrete. Avoid removing materials unless they are free from asbestos.

B. Trim the door frame and wall base to allow the flooring to slide at least 1/4" beneath them. Maintain a concealed 5/16" minimum expansion space underneath each.

C. Smooth out any bumps or ridges on the subfloor and use floor leveling compound to fill in depressions, ensuring that unevenness does not exceed 3/16” per 10-foot span.

D. Prior to installation, allow unopened product to acclimate. In cases where acclimation time is limited, ensure that the difference in temperature and relative humidity between the flooring's storage/transportation environment and the final installation environment does not exceed 25°F and 20% respectively.

E. Clear away debris from the subfloor before initiating the installation.

F. When dealing with concrete subfloors, lay down a vapor barrier with overlapping seams of at least 8".

G. For planks lacking attached underlayment, install them over a single layer of underlayment suitable for this product.

Flooring Installation

1. Examine each plank thoroughly. During installation, blend planks from multiple cartons simultaneously to achieve an even distribution of colors and shades throughout the setup.

2. When working on the initial row along straight walls, eliminate the tongue from all long side joints and solely from the short side of the first plank.

3. If dealing with uneven walls, trace the contour on the tongue side of the plank and then make the necessary cut.

4. Assemble the first row with the tongue side facing the wall. Insert the end tongue into the end groove and pivot downward to connect. Ensure the planks stay aligned and the joints remain closed.

5. Using spacers side by side resulting in a thickness of 5/16".

6. Allocate a 5/16" gap on all sides to allow for expansion. The first piece should be at least 8" in length. Begin new rows with pieces trimmed from the previous row. Maintain a minimum 6" offset for end joints.

7. At a slight angle, insert the tongue of the second plank into the groove of the first plank until the edges of the product meet. Rotate downward to secure the joints.

8. Begin by connecting the short end of the plank. When the plank is rotated down, there will be a gap on the long side joints.

9. Lift the outer edge of the plank approximately 1" upwards. Maintain this angle while pushing the plank until the edges of the product meet. Rotate the plank downward to lock the joint. Repeat these steps to finalize the installation.

10. Alternate Tap Method: Begin by aligning the tongues with the grooves on both the long and short sides of the planks. Start by installing the long side, using a tapping block to gently tap along the long side until the joint is firmly closed. Then, tap the end using the tapping block to lock it securely. Note that uneven tapping or excessive force can harm the joint.

11. Make certain that once the joint is fully closed, a 5/16" gap remains toward the wall to accommodate expansion.

12. When dealing with the last row, align the plank to be placed atop the second-to-last row. Utilize a full-width plank as a spacer to trace the contour of the wall and cut the plank accordingly.

13. For the final row, insert the long side tongue into the groove with the end joint properly aligned. Employ a pull bar and a hammer to work evenly along the length of the plank and lightly tap the joint until it closes securely.

14. Following the successful tapping of the long side joint, proceed to tap the short side closed as well, using either a tapping block or a pull bar.

Installation Under Doorway Frames

15. Slide plank under pre-cut door frame.

16. Tap the long side joint closed first. Then Tap the end joint first.

Installation Around Fixed Object

17. Allow 5/16” expansion space around fixed objects.

Finishing the Installation

18. Remove all spacers.

19. Employ the Alternate Tap Method: Begin by aligning the tongues with the grooves on both the long and short sides of the planks. Start by installing the long side, using a tapping block to gently tap along the long side until the joint is firmly closed. Then, tap the end using the tapping block to lock it securely. Note that uneven tapping or excessive force can harm the joint.

Make certain that once the joint is fully closed, a 5/16" gap remains toward the wall to accommodate expansion.

When dealing with the last row, align the plank to be placed atop the second-to-last row. Utilize a full-width plank as a spacer to trace the contour of the wall and cut the plank accordingly.

For the final row, insert the long side tongue into the groove with the end joint properly aligned. Employ a pull bar and a hammer to work evenly along the length of the plank and lightly tap the joint until it closes securely.

Following the successful tapping of the long side joint, proceed to tap the short side closed as well, using either a tapping block or a pull bar.

20. The expansion gap around the perimeter of the room should be filled with 100% flexible silicone sealant following the installation instructions to create a watertight seal. Foam backer rod helps fill the empty space in the room perimeter expansion gap and reduces the amount of 100% flexible silicone sealant needed during the installation. It helps ensure the silicone sealant stays towards the surface to properly span the gap between the top of the floor and the wall.

Although our floors are designed with easy care in mind, all floors require routine care and preventative maintenance for sustained beauty and performance.

Preventive Maintenance

Exterior Mats

• Place exterior mats outside all exterior entrances.

• Exterior mats should be constructed of dual fibers: soft fibers capable of absorbing moisture and coarse fibers to remove dirt and grime from shoe soles.

• To allow time for cleaning, purchase two sets of exterior mats. Place one set at all exterior entrances to reduce the amount of dirt, grit, and moisture tracked into the home. When it’s time for cleaning, remove the soiled set and immediately replace with the fresh set.

• Cleaning mats routinely prevents them from becoming a soil source.

Interior Mats

• Place interior mats inside all exterior entrances to capture any residual dirt, grit, or moisture missed by exterior mats.

• They should be constructed of an absorbent fiber with a breathable, non-staining back.

• Remember to routinely clean both sides of interior mats so they don’t become a secondary source of soil, and also clean underneath to prevent soil and grit from becoming trapped and dulling the finish of the flooring.

• Do not use rubber mats, which may stain the floor.

Furniture

• Use non-staining felt or plastic floor protectors at least one inch in diameter under furniture.

• Chair casters should be rubber, not plastic or metal.

• Routinely clean casters to remove grit.

• Lay plywood over the floor to avoid dents and gouges and use a furniture dolly when moving heavy appliances and furniture.

Other Preventative Measures

• Keep pet nails trimmed to minimize scratches.

• Protect flooring from spiked heels, athletic shoes or shoes in need of repair.

• Routinely clean vacuum wheels, brush and head, and periodically inspect for foreign objects.

• Close window treatments during hours of direct sunlight and minimize excessive lighting whenever possible to protect floor.

• Exercise caution when placing area rugs over floors with radiant heating. Rugs may increase flooring temperatures beyond recommended levels and void the warranty.

ROUTINE CARE

The amount of daily usage will determine how often cleaning is required.

Day to Day Cleaning

• Dust mop, sweep and/or vacuum the floor regularly to remove any particles that could scratch the floor.

• WARNING: Vacuums with beater bar or power rotary brush head should never be used on wood flooring.

• Use vacuum tools designed for hard surfaces.

• Use a microfiber mop for dust mopping. Pay close attention to mop head. Once soiled, replace with a fresh one. Launder soiled mop heads without fabric softener. Fabric softener residue may cause streaking on the floors.

Occasional Cleaning

• Occasionally wet mop with water only, using a well wrung-out mop.

• If needed, use 1 cup of vinegar per gallon of water OR 1/3 cup non-sudsing ammonia per gallon of water.

• Flood mopping is never recommended since mop water may damage flooring and leave spots.

• Do not pour liquid directly on the floor or use an excessively wet mop.

• Do not allow liquid to puddle or leave moisture standing on the floor.

• Allow floor to dry completely before replacing interior mats.

Cleaning Spills

• Remove spills promptly. Do not allow topical moisture to remain on the floor.

• Immediately use an absorbent cloth to remove as much of the liquid as possible.

• Mist a clean microfiber cloth and rub the area, working from the outside of the area toward the center.

• Take care to wipe the surface thoroughly.

• To reduce spotting, do not allow liquids to stand or remain on the surface of the flooring.

Spot Removal

• Immediately use a microfiber cloth and rub the area, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.

• Take care to wipe the surface thoroughly.

• Do not allow liquids to stand or remain on the surface of the flooring to reduce spotting.

Products and Tools to Avoid

• Do not use oil soaps, wax, detergents, abrasive cleaners, polishes, or other household products to clean the floor.

• Vacuums with beater bar or power rotary brush head should never be used on wood flooring.

• Never use power scrubbers to clean the floor.

LIMITED LIFETIME RESIDENTIAL WARRANTY

The Manufacturer warrants to the original purchaser that the flooring will be free of manufacturing defects, and the surface will not wear through*, stain or fade from sunlight or artificial light throughout the life of the product when used under normal residential traffic conditions.

*Wear‐through is defined as total loss of pattern in a minimum of 2 square inch area. Scratches and loss of gloss are not considered as wear‐through. If the product wears through, stains or fades, The Manufacturer will at its option replace or refund the portion of the floor in question as covered under this warranty. This warranty does not cover labor, unless professionally installed, nor any other incidental expenses incurred as a result of covered defect. Should the original floor be discontinued, The Manufacturer will replace the defective material with a floor of equal value.

This warranty is exclusive to the original purchaser and in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and all other remedies, guarantees or liabilities arising by law or otherwise.

LIMITED 10 YEAR COMMERCIAL WARRANTY

The Manufacturer warrants to the original purchaser that the flooring will be free of manufacturing defects, and the surface will not wear through*, stain or fade from sunlight or artificial light for 10 years after the date of purchase of the product when used under normal commercial traffic conditions.

*Wear‐through is defined as total loss of pattern in a minimum of 2 square inch area. Scratches and loss of gloss are not considered as wear‐through. Heavier traffic areas such as entry foyers, food preparation areas such as commercial kitchens, and any areas with heavy rolling loads are not recommended.

If the product wears through, stains or fades, The Manufacturer will at its option replace or refund the portion of the floor in question as covered under this warranty. This warranty does not cover labor unless professionally installed, nor any other incidental expenses incurred as a result of covered defect. Should the original floor be discontinued, The Manufacturer will replace the defective material with a floor of equal value.

This warranty is exclusive to the original purchaser and in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and all other remedies, guarantees or liabilities arising by law or otherwise.

Pet Friendly Warranty

The Manufacturer warrants that this laminate flooring will resist permanent staining caused by pet urine (domestic cat or dog) when thoroughly cleaned. Stain resistance means the ability of your floor to resist (i.e., minimize or withstand) permanent stains. Cleaning of the affected area should begin immediately upon discovery. The more time that elapses before removal, the more difficult a stain will be to remove. Keep pet nails trimmed at all time.

Waterproof Warranty

The flooring will resist damage from normal wet mopping, steam mopping and everyday household spills. This limited warranty does not apply to moisture damage caused by events beyond everyday household spills, including but not limited to, flooding, standing water, leaking pipes, mechanical failures, appliance leaks or failing to follow the maintenance instructions. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials (for example hydrostatic subfloor moisture) mold and/or mildew growth can occur (particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered and unaddressed). The warranty excludes damage resulting from mold and/or mildew growth due to prolonged exposure to moisture.

GENERAL EXCLUSIONS AND CONDITIONS

● Damage arising by not following relevant installation, care, maintenance and use instructions of the present warranty and the installation instructions provided.

● Damage arising from improper installation (for example installation on an unlevel subfloor and installation when there is not sufficient perimeter expansion zone), improper care, improper maintenance, or improper use. Damage arising because the flooring is exposed to extreme cold or extreme heat as specified in the provided installation manual.

● Damage caused by exposure to excessive moisture (for example excessive moisture in a concrete slab or subfloor, excessive moisture from hydrostatic pressure, flooding, standing water, water underneath the flooring, excessive moisture as the result of malfunctioning appliances such as dishwashers, ice makers, refrigerators, sinks, or pipes).

● Normal changes in color, gloss, grain pattern and tone (this is normal for flooring as it ages).

● Damage arising because the flooring is installed in an outdoor area, a solarium, an unenclosed porch, a garage or similar area

● Damage arising because the flooring is not used under normal conditions. Damage arising from accidents, abuse, misuse, or the use of strong chemicals.

● Damage caused by an act of God (for example a natural disaster).

● Damage caused by vacuum cleaner beater bars or hard plastics, or metal caster wheels.

● Differences in aspect, color, gloss, grain pattern and tone with the reference flooring sample in for example the store or showroom.

● Flooring that has been damaged or neglected during transportation.

● Scratches, marks, stains and other damage caused by exposure to “abrasives” such as pebbles, grit, sand, furniture, etc.

● Damage to click joints or indentation due to heavy rolling loads.

● Damage of planks coming apart at the seams because they have been engaged/disengaged more than three times. Or damage caused by improper disengagement of the planks.

● Damage caused by the collections of dirt and moisture at entrances due to the lack of interior and exterior doormats.

● Damage caused by sliding or rolling heavy objects on the floor. A solid protective covering must be laid (must use at least ¼” (6 mm) hard plank) on your floor and gently “walk” the item a cross it. Carpet or cardboard is not adequate to prevent surface indentation or roller marks from occurring or scratches to the floor.

● Damage caused by non-compliant casters on furniture. Barrel-type caster wheels or wide, flat glides are best for protecting the floor. For areas with rolling chairs (e.g. desk area), ensure a protective mat is used under the chair.

This warranty is valid only to the original purchaser. It is not transferable and only applicable to the first installation of the flooring. The affected area must be visible and cover an area bigger than 2 square inches. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and the installer, whether they are professionals or a do-it-yourselfer, to inspect all flooring and flooring accessories before installation. If during inspection the purchaser or the installer knows/discovers or can reasonably be supposed to know/discover (for example when the defect is visible), that the flooring has a visible manufacturing issue, do not install the flooring. Please immediately contact the retailer from which the flooring was purchased. No claims will be accepted for flooring of which the purchaser or installer knew/discovered or can reasonably be supposed to have known/discovered, that there was something wrong with it. In such case we only warrant the part of the flooring which has not been installed yet. We do not allow or authorize any other person or entity to alter the obligations and limitations in this warranty. This warranty is the complete and exclusive expression of our warranty and is in lieu of all other express and/or statutory warranties. Any implied warranties, including but not limited to the implied warranties for a particular purpose are limited to this express warranty. However, some jurisdictions do not allow exclusion or limitation on how an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. We expressly exclude and will not pay consequential or incidental damages under this warranty. By this we mean for example loss, expense, inconvenience or damages, other than to the flooring itself, that may result from a defect in the flooring. However, some jurisdictions do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. We reserve the right to inspect the flooring and to remove samples for additional evaluation, if we consider this necessary. Any attempt to repair or replace the flooring without our consent will void this warranty. The failure of either party to enforce any of the provisions of this warranty agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of such provision or a waiver of the right of any party thereafter to enforce each and every provision.

FOR WARRANTY SERVICE

You should notify the original retailer of the defect within 30 calendar days after you know/discover the defect and within the validity period of this warranty. Your retailer can answer your questions and, if necessary, start to process a claim. If your notification takes place outside this period, the warranty will not be applicable. In order to enjoy the warranty, you are obligated to present:

● A valid proof of purchase in the form of the sales receipt for the flooring and other accessories related to the installation which may affect the installation quality such as but not limited to adhesive, molding, underlayment, moisture barrier etc.

● A detailed description of the defect and/or a photograph or sample of the flooring that clearly shows the defect. Provide additional information requested by The Manufacturer to understand the root cause of the issue.

If we honor a claim under this warranty, The Manufacturer will - at their sole discretion - repair the defective material or The Manufacturer will refund the price of the flooring. If the flooring was originally installed by a certified professional installer and if there is a justified claim The Manufacturer will also pay the reasonable labor costs to perform the repair or replacement. This repair or replacement or refund will be a pro-rated percentage cost of the flooring and labor cost.

Terms of Limited Lifetime Residential Warranties

• Within One Year – Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect within one year of purchase.

The Manufacturer will arrange a credit based on the applicable purchase price and reasonable labor if

professionally installed.

• Year One and Year Five – Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect submitted after year

one and before year five. The Manufacturer will arrange a credit based on the applicable purchase price and 50% of labor if professionally installed.

• Year Five and Year Ten – Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect submitted after year

five and before year ten. The Manufacturer will arrange a credit based on the applicable purchase price but no labor cost.

• After Ten Years - Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect submitted after year ten. The Manufacturer will provide products to repair the defective areas of the floor but no labor cost. If the flooring model is no longer available, other reasonable arrangement will be substituted.

Terms of Commercial Warranties

• Within One Year – Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect within one year of purchase.

The Manufacturer will arrange a credit based on the applicable purchase price and reasonable labor if

professionally installed.

• Year One and Year Five – Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect submitted after year

one and before year five. The Manufacturer will arrange a credit based on the applicable purchase price and 50% of labor if professionally installed.

• Year Five and Year Ten – Claims submitted for confirmed manufacturing defect submitted after year

five and before year ten. The Manufacturer will arrange a credit based on the applicable purchase price but no labor cost.

This warranty is limited to the designs, colors, structures and styles available at the time of repair or replacement. If the original is no longer available, The Manufacturer have the right to substitute another design, color, structure and style that is similar to the original and that has a similar value. The Manufacturer will always try to take into account the needs of the customer.

IF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY ARISES UNDER APPLICABLE LAW, THEN ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE DURATION OF THIS WRITTEN WARRANTY TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATIONS OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, THEREFORE, THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS. AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM JURISDICTION TO JURISDICTION.