Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Elka Vinyl Flooring
To achieve a visually pleasing result, it is important to mix the floor panels during installation, avoiding an excessive concentration of identical, lighter, or darker panels next to each other. For the best aesthetic effect, it is recommended to align the panels with the longest wall or parallel to the direction of incoming light. Additionally, ensure that the end joints of panels in two successive rows are staggered by at least 30 cm (12 inches). To enhance the natural look and improve mechanical strength, we advise installing the planks in a random formation rather than a specific pattern.
Pre-installation Measurements and Panel Width
Before beginning the installation process, it is crucial to measure the room accurately. Make sure that the first and last rows of panels are at least 5 cm wide to ensure proper alignment and a seamless finish.
Underlay Selection and Installation
For Elka LVT click panels, you have the flexibility to choose the starting point of the installation. However, it is recommended to start in the left corner of the room. Consider using the specialised Elka LVT underlay, which not only facilitates the installation process but also offers sound-reducing and leveling properties. Be cautious about using underlays that are too soft or made from unsuitable materials, as they can potentially damage your floor. Avoid using laminate, parquet, or carpet underlay for click vinyl installations. Refer to the packaging or consult your dealer for more information on the appropriate underlay.
Preparation for Wall Edges and Expansion Gaps
To ensure a proper fit against the walls, remove the click system from the planks along the wall edges. Trim the tongue on the long side of the first panel and row, leaving a minimum 2mm (0.08 inch) expansion joint, preferably 5mm (0.20 inch). Utilise a spare piece of Elka LVT flooring as a distance spacer to facilitate the installation process. If you are installing the flooring over a heated subfloor, ensure a minimum 5mm (0.20 inch) expansion gap for thermal expansion.
Precise Cutting Techniques for Vinyl Planks
Elka LVT floors can be easily cut with the decorative side facing up, using a special concave vinyl cutting knife. Mark the cutting line, make a firm cut on the surface, and break off the plank using both hands. It is not necessary to cut through the vinyl completely.
Starting the Installation and Click Profile Removal
Begin the installation with the first plank in the corner. Remove the click profile from both the long and short sides of the plank by sawing. For other planks in the first row (excluding the corner), remove the click profile on the long side that will be next to the wall. Any side of a plank adjacent to a wall should have its click profile removed to ensure the required expansion gap.
Ensuring Straightness and Expansion Gap with Distance Spacers
To facilitate the initial installation, assemble the first three rows of planks away from the wall, allowing you to sit on the planks during assembly. Slide the first three rows into the desired position near the wall, using distance spacers. Use a thin rope to check and adjust the straightness of the installed planks. It is advisable to verify the straightness periodically throughout the installation process. Remember to maintain the expansion gap along the perimeter using distance spacers.
Two Installation Methods for Uniclic® Planks
Elka LVT planks offer two installation methods with the unique Uniclic® system.
Method A (angle-angle) involves rotating the short side of the plank into the already installed plank, raising the newly installed plank to an angle of 20-30°, and clicking the panels together.
Method B (taping) allows for joining the panels by gradually tapping them together using the special Uniclic® tapping block, eliminating the need to lift the planks.
Overcoming Challenging Areas with Pull-Bar and Hammer
For areas where using the tapping block is difficult (e.g., against the wall), the planks can be pulled together using a pull-bar and hammer.
Checking for Uniformity and Joint Quality
After installing each plank, check both the short and long side joints to ensure there are no height differences or gaps. This step guarantees a consistent and high-quality installation.
Seamless Installation, Row by Row
Continue the installation row by row, moving toward the end of the room. Sitting on the already-installed planks can make the process easier and more comfortable.
Installation Instructions
Temperature Considerations
Ensure that the room temperature for laying Elka vinyl flooring is a minimum of 18°C. If the room temperature is below 18°C, it is necessary to switch on the floor heating at 50% capacity until the temperature reaches 18°C. Once the room temperature reaches 18°C, you can turn off the heating completely.
Expansion Gaps and Transition Profiles
For LVT floating installations, it is strongly recommended to have 5mm expansion gaps throughout the flooring. Additionally, it is advisable to incorporate a transition profile when transitioning from areas with floor heating to areas without floor heating. This is essential due to the larger movement of subfloors with floor heating compared to those without.
Heating After Installation
After the installation of the floor, it is important to wait at least 48 hours before restarting the heating system. When restarting, it is crucial to do so gradually, increasing the temperature by 5°C per day.
Temperature Limits
The maximum permitted contact temperature on the Elka Vinyl floor is 27°C. The maximum hot water temperature at the exit of the heating furnace should not exceed 45°C. It is imperative to change the temperature gradually at the beginning and end of each heating period.
Ideal Climate Conditions
Preferably, maintain the climate conditions in the rooms between 18-30°C. To avoid heat accumulation, avoid placing carpets or rugs directly on the floor and ensure sufficient space between furniture and the floor. Keep in mind that changing temperatures during different seasons can cause dimensional changes in the flooring.
Finishing Steps
Final Surface Inspection
Carefully inspect the installed floor's final surface. Install skirtings against the wall, ensuring they are not attached to the floor itself. In small areas with high moisture levels such as bathrooms and toilets, or where the floor surface is less than 10 m², you have the option to fill the expansion gaps with "Hydroflex white, Hydrokit, or other low modulus silicone" for added protection.
Thresholds and Doorways
When the new flooring meets a threshold or a doorway, it is recommended to undercut the door frames or mouldings for a seamless transition. To achieve the right cut, turn a plank upside down and position it on the floor against the door frame. Place a hand saw flat against the plank and make a clean cut through the frame. Remove the cut-out section and vacuum any debris. Now, simply click the plank on the long side, next to the undercut moulding, and slide the panels to close the end joint. Use the LVT installation tool as a pull bar to ensure a tight fit in both the long and short joints.
Challenging Areas
In areas where tilting the planks is difficult, such as under radiators, utilise the LVT installation tool to pull the panels horizontally together, ensuring a secure connection.
Dealing with Pipes
When encountering pipes within a row, ensure that the pipe aligns precisely with the short side of two panels. Use a drill bit with a diameter equal to the pipe's size plus an additional 10 mm (0.4 inches). Connect the panels on the short side and drill a hole centred on the joint between the two panels. Now, you can proceed with the installation of the panels around the pipe.
Double Pipes
In the case of a double pipe, mark and drill a hole at each designated point with a diameter equivalent to the pipes' size plus 10 mm. If the holes are located on the long side of the plank, make a 45-degree cut from each hole to the edge of the plank.
Gluing Cut-Out Pieces
Using an appropriate adhesive along the cut edges of the removed piece, glue it back into place. Ensure that no glue seeps between the cut-out piece and the subfloor, providing a secure and seamless finish.