The Most Important Consideration When Installing Hybrid Flooring

They say experience is the best teacher. Viaduct Imports have been importing, supplying and installing SPC Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring since its introduction to the market around four years ago.

We have learnt through considerable experience, both good and bad, that one factor is most critical when installing SPC Hybrid Vinyl Plank Flooring into your home, business or investment property.

Your Subfloor Must Be Flat!!!

The Hybrid Planks must be supported by a flat and even subfloor. If your subfloor is uneven, with low and high points, this will result in pressure and movement, causing the planks to fail over a period of time. An uneven subfloor is by far the main cause of issues with Hybrid Flooring, following installation.

So How Do You Make Sure Your Subfloor Is Flat??

Our best advice is that you choose a competent flooring installer. One who is reputable, professional, diligent and knowledgeable. One whom you trust is giving you sound advice.

And a big clue is………

They will not be the cheapest!!

From our own experience, we have found that the best flooring installers are not the cheapest, nor the ones who offer you a ‘cash payment deal’.
Competent installers charge a fair price and they will never be the cheapest. They are well worth the extra money in the long term.

Another big clue is……….

A best practice installer will check that your subfloor is flat before commencing with the installation. If it is not flat, he will recommend the best solution. This could be the application of levelling compound, sanding the subfloor, or installing sheeting over the subfloor.

Yes, this will cost extra, however, if you want to avoid your flooring failing at some point in the future, this is your wisest course of action.

The biggest trap you can unknowingly fall into is having your installer lay your new Hybrid Flooring onto an uneven subfloor. The flooring will look fantastic at the time and you will happily pay him for his work.

Then, over a period of time, with foot traffic over the floor, there will be movement in the flooring, because of the uneven subfloor. The planks and joints will eventually crack and fail.

By then the installer has long gone and has no interest in rectifying the issue. He will generally blame the product.

We Do Not Want This Situation!! Nor Do You!!

In summary, please ensure that you choose a reputable installer. One who is thorough, knowledgeable and not necessarily the cheapest and double-check that he lays a flat edge over your subfloor to ensure it is flat!!