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Congoleum Duraceramic Rapolano: Shoreline Mist Luxury Vinyl Tile RA-41
Product ID: 9279

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Non-java version.
List Price: $4.99
Your Price: $3.79 / SF
 $64.43 / Carton
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17 SF / Carton.
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Features Benefits
 
 
Luxurious Resilient Flooring           DuraCeramic offers more warmth and comfort than ordinary ceramic tiles.  These tiles also have superior resistance to chipping or cracking.
 
 
Choose Your Installation Large format 16" x 16" tiles can be installed with or without grout.  Select which style you like best!
 
 
Aluminum Oxide Finish Aluminum oxide protects your floor from everyday wear and tear while making it simple to maintain.
 
 
Lifelong Limited Warranty       Limestone Composite tile is so durable that it is backed by a Lifelong Limited Warranty.

Congoleum Duraceramic Rapolano:  Shoreline Mist Luxury Vinyl Tile RA-41

Manufacturer:
Congoleum
Style Name:
Duraceramic Rapolano
Manufacturer SKU:
RA-41
Color Name:
Shoreline Mist
Locking:
Grouted or Ungrouted
Description:
Luxury Vinyl Tile
Dimensions:
16" L x 16" W x 0.19" T
Where to Install:
On, Above or Below Grade
Approved Subfloor:
Wood, Concrete, Vinyl
Installation Method:
Glue Down
Finish Type:
Aluminum Oxide
Finish Warranty:
Limited Lifetime
Carton Coverage:
17 sq ft
Planks Per Carton: 10

P.O. Box 3127
Mercerville, NJ 08619-0127
609-584-3000
©2007 Congoleum Corporation
 
 
Effective as of January 01, 2007
DURACERAMIC, DURACERAMIC OPTIONS, DURAPLANK AND DURASTONE
 
RESIDENTIAL LIFELONG LIMITED WARRANTY
 
The Lifelong Limited Warranty provides that your floor:
Warranty Period
Will be free of manufacturing defects
Lifelong
Will not wear out
Lifelong
Will not fade
Lifelong
Will not stain
Lifelong
 
 
The Residential Lifelong Limited Warranty covers material for the period of the warranty and reasonable labor costs for the warranty period if professional installation was paid for when the original floor was installed. See the Five-Year Commercial Limited Warranty for DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options, DuraPlank and DuraStone installed in commercial application.
 
RESIDENTIAL CARE
 
IMMEDIATELY AFTER INSTALLATION
  • Protect and do not disturb the sealed seams on your resilient sheet flooring for at least 16 hours after seam sealer application to ensure a proper seam bond.
  • For ungrouted DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options, DuraStone, resilient sheet and resilient tile floors, keep traffic to a minimum during the first 48 hours to allow the adhesive to harden. For grouted DuraCeramic and DuraCeramic Options, keep all traffic off the floor for 24 hours, then open to light foot traffic only for the next 24 hours. Resume normal traffic after 48 hours.
  • Furniture should not be placed on the floor until the adhesive and grout, if applicable, has had adequate time to dry (48 hours for grouted DuraCeramic and DuraCeramic Options and at least 24 hours for all other products).
  • Always move heavy furniture and appliances with care to avoid gouging or tearing the floor. First, lay strips of plywood or hardboard panels on the floor. Then roll, "walk" or slide these items on the strips. Do not push or pull appliances and heavy furniture without taking these precautions.
  • Wash your floor using Congoleum Bright 'N Easy No-Rinse Cleaner or other suitable resilient floor cleaner 48 hours after installation.
Caution: Resilient flooring, like other types of smooth floors, can become slippery when wet. Allow time for the floor to dry after washing. Immediately wipe up wet areas from spills or wet feet. Place mats at outside entrances to prevent water, snow or ice from being tracked onto your floor. Improper polishes or finishes can also cause slipperiness.
 
PREVENTATIVE CARE
  • Make sure furniture legs have large surface, nonstaining floor protectors. Replace small, narrow metal or dome-shaped glides with smooth, flat glides that are in flat contact with the floor. Glides should be equipped with self-adhesive felt pads to avoid scratching the surface of the floor. The pads should be checked periodically for grit and wear and replaced when necessary.
  • Heavy furniture or appliances that are not moved often should be equipped with flat, nonstaining composition furniture casters or cups of appropriate size - available square from 1 1/2" to 2 5/8" and round from 1 3/8" to 1 5/8".
  • Mobile appliances and furniture should be equipped with easily swiveling casters. They should be at least 2" in diameter with nonstaining hard rubber treads at least 3/4" wide. Do not use ball-shaped casters.
  • Place mats at outside entrances to prevent dirt, grit and soil from being tracked onto your floor. Use 100% latex-backed mats, because some rubber-backed mats or carpets may permanently stain your floor.
  • To help prevent staining from asphalt tracking, we recommend the use of a latex-based driveway sealer.
  • Draw drapes and blinds during peak periods of strong sunlight. Resilient floors, like other home furnishing products, may discolor or fade when overexposed to the sun.
  • Heat-producing appliances such as a refrigerator or range, or hot air registers emitting a direct flow of heat in excess of 120° F, even intermittently, can scorch, burn, discolor or fade your floor. Cigarettes, matches and other very hot objects can also damage your floor.
  • Avoid wearing stiletto or spiked heels on your floor. These types of heels can indent or damage many types of floors.
REGULAR CARE (ALL PRODUCTS)
  • Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit that can abrade, dull or scratch your new floor. Do not use a vacuum with a beater brush, because it may damage the floor's surface.
  • Wipe up spills promptly with a damp cloth or mop.
  • Wash your floor with Congoleum Bright 'N Easy No-Rinse Cleaner or other suitable resilient floor cleaner.
Caution: Avoid one-step "mop and polish" products, dishwashing liquids and oil-based cleaners. These may leave a residue which can attract dirt and dull your floor's finish. Avoid cleaners that contain abrasives or solvents which may permanently damage your floor.
  • A copolymer or acrylic grout sealer compatible with acrylic grouts may be used on DuraCeramic grout. Do not use a penetrating silicone sealer on the grout.
  • The gloss level may change over time depending on the amount of traffic, care and maintenance the floor receives. To restore the appearance, first use Congoleum Bright 'N Easy Polish Remover to remove any ground-in dirt and excess polish buildup. Rinse thoroughly. Then apply Congoleum Bright 'N Easy Floor Polish (03002) to obtain a high-gloss finish or Congoleum Bright 'N Easy Satin-Gloss Floor Polish (03007) to obtain a satin-gloss or natural-gloss finish. Do not apply polish to Xclusive.

 
 
 

 

 
DURACERAMIC INSTALLATION PROCEDURES

SAFETY
Safety for yourself and others on the job site is your responsibility as a professional flooring installer. Read and observe the following safety precautions.
  • Read and follow the safety precautions and warnings printed on the label of the installation accessory products being used. Obtain the appropriate MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) for information that may be required for products which may contain hazardous materials. DuraCeramic does not have MSDS because it is classified as an "article" and not a chemical. MSDS are available for the adhesive, joint sealer, and grout. You may obtain an MSDS for these products by calling or writing to your Congoleum distributor or contacting Congoleum at the address or phone number listed on this page.
  • Various safety precautions should be taken when preparing subfloors.
  • Wood and concrete: If working on wood or concrete subfloors, use proper safety precautions when sanding or grinding. Avoid creating dust. Concrete and cementitious patching compounds contain crystalline silica, which is a known carcinogen. Wood
    dust is classified as a nasal carcinogen in humans. Airborne wood dust may also be an explosive hazard.
  • Resilient Flooring
  • WARNING
Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, beadblast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic "cutback" adhesive, or other adhesive. These products may contain asbestos fibers and/or crystalline silica. Avoid creating dust. Inhalation of such dust is a cancer and respiratory tract hazard. Smoking by individuals exposed to asbestos fibers greatly increases the risk of serious bodily harm. Unless positively certain that the product is a non-asbestos containing material, you must presume it contains asbestos. Regulations may require that the material be tested to determine asbestos content and may govern the removal and disposal of material. Whenever possible, existing flooring should be left in place and the new floor installed over the top. If you must remove old flooring material, contact your retailer or Congoleum Corporation, Installation Department, PO. Box 3127, Mercerville, NJ 08619, for a copy of recommended work practices for the removal of resilient floor coverings. These practices should be followed.
 
NOTICE

Various federal, state and local government agencies have regulations covering the removal of in-place asbestos containing material. If you contemplate the removal of a resilient floor covering structure that contains (or is presumed to contain) asbestos, you must review and comply with all applicable regulations. Regulations outside the United States may vary.

Copies of the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) Recommended Work Practices for the Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings are available from:

Congoleum Corporation Resilient Floor Covering Institute
Installation Department 401 East Jefferson Street
P.O. Box 3127 Suite 102
Mercerville, NJ 08619 Rockville, MD 20850

Please note that the RFCI Recommended Work Practices are subject to change as new practices are incorporated. It is your responsibility to determine that the recommended work practices you use are those in effect.

MOLD AND MILDEW ISSUES

Prior to removing an existing floor following the RFCI Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings (unless state or local law requires other measures), if
there are visible indications of mold or mildew or the presence of a strong musty odor in the area where resilient flooring is to be removed or installed, the source of the problem should be
identified and corrected before proceeding with the flooring work. In virtually all situations, if there is a mold issue, there is or has been an excessive moisture issue. Visible signs of mold or
mildew (such as discoloration) can indicate the presence of mold or mildew on the subfloor, on the underlayment, on the back of the flooring, and sometimes even on the floor surface. If mold or mildew is discovered during the removal or installation of resilient flooring, all flooring work should stop until the mold or mildew problem (and any related moisture problem) has been
addressed.

In areas where flooding has occurred, it is recommended that damaged flooring be removed following the RFCI Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings (unless state or local law requires other measures). Any underlayment and subfloor should be allowed to thoroughly dry and, if necessary cleaned, disinfected, and otherwise remediate consistent with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines referenced below. Any structural damage or signs of mold or mildew must be corrected before reinstalling
resilient flooring. This may include, for example, replacement of the underlayment and/or subfloor.

For water damage caused by leaking fixtures, the source of the moisture leak must be located and corrected. Any structural damage must be repaired and any signs of mold or residual moisture must be addressed before replacing the resilient flooring in the affected area.

To deal with mold and mildew issues, you should refer to the EPA guidelines that address mold and mildew. Depending on the mold and mildew condition present, those remediation
options range from clean up measures using gloves and biocide to hiring a professional mold and mildew remediation contractor to address the condition, Remediation measures may require
structural repairs such as replacing the underlayment and/or subfloor contaminated with mold and mildew as a result of prolonged exposure to moisture.

The EPA mold guidelines are contained in two publications "A Brief Guide To Mold, Moisture and Your Home" (EPA 402-K-02-003) and "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial
Buildings" (EPA 402-K-01-001), Appendix B of the "Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings" publication describes potential health effects from exposure to mold, such as allergic and asthma reactions and irritation to eyes, skin, nose and throat. These publications can be located on EPA's website at www.epa.gov/iaq/molds
  • Keep work areas free of obstructions, such as tools and scrap or loose tiles, and dispose of scrap materials promptly and properly to eliminate a slip or trip hazard.
  • Always use the correct lifting practices.
  • Use only UL® approved electrically powered tools equipped with a dust collector. Read and follow the safety precautions and recommended procedures for using power tools.
  • Use heavy-duty extension cords and keep them in good repair.
  • If using minerals spirits as suggested in this guide, CAUTION: Mineral spirits is a flammable material. Read and follow cautionary instructions on the labels of these products.
  • Wear non-conducting rubber-soled shoes and use a ground fault interrupter (GFI) when using power equipment in damp or wet areas.
  • Wear protective equipment when appropriate such as safety glasses, respirators, NlOSH-designated dust masks, kneepads, gloves, etc.
DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options and DuraPlank
 
DuraCeramic is an innovative flooring product with unique installation procedures that vary from traditional ceramic and natural stone. Its proven success has paved the way for DuraCeramic Options and DuraPlank.

DuraCeramic Options is a floor and wall tile with embossed lines through the center of the tile in both directions. The tiles can be installed like DuraCeramic, in a full 16"x 16" format or the embossed lines can be scored with a sharp utility knife and flexed to separate the tile to create
an 8" x 8" format. This feature provides opportunities for creating custom floors with coordinating wall, base and backsplash by adding accent colors, borders and insets or
combining it with DuraCeramic for different size formats.

DuraPlank comes in 4'1/2" x 36" planks in a variety of real wood colorations. DuraPlank features the beauty of real wood with the durability and moisture resistance of DuraCeramic. Use DuraPlank in any room in the home or combine it with DuraCeramic or DuraCeramic Options to create custom borders and insets.
DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options and DuraPlank are constructed with a limestone composite base that is fortified with a polymeric resin. It provides toughness and flexibility to resist breaking from normal subfloor deflection, expansion and contraction. This feature permits fast, easy installation using a pressure sensitive adhesive over a wide variety of wall and subfloor surfaces without extensive preparation.
 
16" x 16" DuraCeramic Options with embossed lines
 
Score and separate into 8" tiles for an 8" x 8" grouted installation
 
OVERVIEW
Use Congoleum DS 100 DuraSet Adhesive, for all approved floor and wall applications. Set tiles and planks into tacky dry adhesive for floor applications and semi tacky dry adhesive
for wall applications. PL® Polyurethane Construction Adhesive can also be used for wall, backsplash and base applications, (not recommended for flooring applications). Mortar, mastic or other adhesives are not recommended.
 
Depending on the desired appearance, tiles can be installed with or without grout.
  • Grouted floor and wall tiles* are laid with a1/16" to l/4" space at the joints depending on the desired grout line width. (DuraCeramic Options that are scored and separated must be grouted.) Congoleum DuraCeramic Premixed Grout can be applied immediately after tile is installed. Do not use cement, epoxy or other premix grouts.
  • Ungrouted floor and wall tiles* are laid with no space at the joints. The joints on an ungrouted tile floor should be sealed with Congoleum DS200 DuraCeramic Joint Sealer
    to lock out surface water and aid cleaning. Sealing is highly recommended for all ungrouted floors. Do not use DS200 Joint Sealer on walls or other vertical surfaces.
  • DuraPlank is designed as a flooring product but it can also be installed on the walls to create a durable easy to clean surface. DuraPlank is always installed with no space
    between the joints. Do not seal the joints with DS200 Joint Sealer or apply grout to joints.

* Do not apply grout or joint sealer to the embossed center lines when installing DuraCeramic Options in a full 16" x 16" format. Apply grout or joint sealer to the tile joints only.
 

INSTALLATION ACCESSORY MATERIALS
  •  DSl00 DuraSet Adhesive - For all approved tile and plank floor and wall applications
  • DuraCeramic Premixed Grout - For joints on grouted floor and wall tiles.
  • DS200 DuraCeramic Joint Sealer - For joints on ungrouted floor tiles only.
  • DuraCeramic Installation Accessory Kit - For grouted applications.
  • Congoleum UnderFlor - Floating Underlayment System.
RECOMMENDED USE

DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options and DuraPlank are recommended for residential and light commercial use in dry, interior, heated areas.
Residential
Recommended for use in all areas of the home except countertops, ceilings and wet areas like shower walls and shower floors.
Light Commercial
Recommended for areas receiving light commercial foot and wheel traffic. Install on floors, walls, and facing of counters and merchandise displays.
 
Retail Office
  • Specialty Shops
  • Lobby
  • Boutiques
  • Reception Area
  • Beauty Salons
  • Conference Room
  • Clothing and Apparel Shops
  • Lounge
Health Care
  • Offices
  • Medical Offices
  • Restrooms
  • Assisted Living - Suitable for Light Wheel Chair Traffic
Hospitality
Educational
  • Guest Rooms
  • Administrative Lounges
  • Dormitory Rooms

 

 
Notes:
DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options and DuraPlank are not recommended for installation in exterior or unheated areas, wet areas, like shower walls or shower floors, countertops, ceilings, in commercial kitchens or food processing areas or on ramps. For information on other specific applications, contact the Congoleum Installation and Technical Office at (609) 584-3888. Areas receiving more concentrated traffic and or routine spills should be protected with floor polish and a regular maintenance schedule should be followed. See Care and Maintenance for more information.
 
 
INSTALLATION ACCESSORIES INFORMATION
 

 

DS100 DuraSet Adhesive

DS200 DuraCeramic
Joint Sealer
DuraCeramic
Premixed Grout
Order Code DS100 DS200 Use specific color code
Description Solvent free, acrylic, pressure-sensitive adhesive Water-based, flexible acrylic sealer Premixed sanded, acrylic grout
Use Installing tile and plank over all approved floor and wall surfaces For sealing joints in ungrouted floors only. Not recommended for walls, vertical surfaces or plank. For grouting joints 1/16" to 1/4" wide. Can also be used for grouting most ceramic, quarry and porcelain floor tiles.
Limitations Not recommended for ceramic, porcelain or natural stone. Not recommended for ceramic, porcelain or natural stone. Not recommended for nonvitreous tiles or natural stone, exterior use, shower floors or underwater use.
Coverage 200 to 250 sq. ft. per gallon 320 sq. ft. per 8 oz. bottle

Joint Width

Approximate Coverage
16" x 16" Tile
1/16" (1.6mm)

450 sq.ft./gal. (42m²)

1/8" (3.2mm)

425 sq.ft./gal. (31m²)

3/16" (4.8mm)

275 sq.ft./gal. (26m²)

1/4" (6.4mm)

225 sq.ft./gal. (21m²)

8" x 8" Tile

1/16" (1.6mm)

225 sq.ft./gal. (20m²)

1/8" (3.2mm)

165 sq.ft./gal. (16m²)

3/16" (4.8mm)

140 sq.ft./gal. (13m²)

1/4" (6.4mm)

115 sq.ft./gal. (11m²)

Applicator 1/16" wide, 1/32" deep, 1/32" apart, trowel blade adapter included Applicator nozzle included Hard rubber float or green epoxy float. Cleanup with firm sponge and 3M® white pad.
Working Time
Floors: 12 hours. Dry to tack - 45 to 60 min. under normal conditions.
Walls: 10 to 20 minutes. Dry to tack - 20 to 30 minutes
N/A 10 minutes- for best results apply grout in a 20 sq. ft. area on floors or a 10 sq. ft. area on walls and clean up immediately.
Set Up Time N/A
Tack free - 1 hour;
Set up - 8 hours
16 to 24 hours
Clean Up
Wet - Water
Dry - Mineral Spirits (Caution: Mineral spirits is flammable)
Wet - Water
Dry - Mineral Spirits (Caution: Mineral spirits is flammable)
Wet - Water
Dry - Household ammonia cleaner.
Do not use grout haze removers.
Color Pale blue, turns clear when tacky dry White, turns clear when dry Popular versatile colors available
Tracers Dark Red N/A N/A
Unit Size 1 gallon; 4 gallons 8 oz. bottle 1 gallon
Shelf Life 1 year if unopened 1 year if unopened 1 year if unopened
Freeze/Thaw Stability Yes Yes Yes
Flammable No No No
 
 
Cautions Potential skin and eye irritant Potential skin and eye irritant Potential skin, eye and respiratory irritant
 
DS100 and DS200 - WARNING: Potential eye and skin irritant.
DuraCeramic Premixed Grout - WARNING: Potential eye, skin and respiratory irritant.
Mineral Spirits - Caution: Flammable material; read and follow cautionary statements on label.
 
PRODUCT INFORMATION
 
SPECIFICATIONS AND RECOMMENDED USAGE
 
PRODUCT INFORMATION DuraCeramic and DuraCeramic Options DuraPlank
Size (nominal) 15 5/8" x 15 5/8" (40 cm x 40 cm) 4 1/2" x 36"
Gauge (nominal) .160" (4.1mm) .160" (4.1mm)
Package per Carton 10 pieces/carton; 17 sq. ft.; 1.58 m² 16 pieces/carton; 18 sq. ft.; 1.67 m²
Shipping Weight
DuraCeramic 29.5 lbs./carton
DuraCeramic Options 33 lbs./carton
DuraPlank 34.5 lbs./carton
NBS Smoke Density Passes Passes
Critical Radiant Flux
(ASTM E648>0.45w/cm²)
Passes Passes
Motor Vehicle FMVSS 302 Passes Passes
Static Load Limit 250 psi 250 psi
Slip Resistance Meets ADA Recommendations Meets ADA Recommendations
PEI Rating 3-4 N/A
Installation Method Grouted or Traditional Edge-to-Edge Fit (Ungrouted) Edge-to-Edge Fit
Subfloor Application On, above or below grade level On, above or below grade level
Adhesive Congoleum DS100 DuraSet Adhesive Congoleum DS100 DuraSet Adhesive
Grout DuraCeramic Premix Grout Not recommended
Joint Sealer (Recommended for ungrouted floors) DS200 Joint Sealer Not recommended
Suggested Usage Residential/Light Commercial Residential/Light Commercial
Warranty Residential - Lifelong Limited/Light Commercial - Five-Year Limited Commercial Residential - Lifelong Limited/Light Commercial - Five-Year Limited Commercial
 
GENERAL INFORMATION
  • Always store and transport cartons on a flat surface stacked no more than 10 cartons high.  Handle tiles, planks and cartons with care.  Tiles and planks can be damaged if dropped.
  • Condition the room(s) and all flooring and setting materials at a constant temperature between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C) for 48 hours prior to, during and 48 hours after installation.  Thereafter, maintain a room temperature between 55°F (13°C) and 100°F (38°C).
  • When installing flooring from two or more cartons, check the code on the side of the cartons to ensure that the pattern and shade numbers are the same.  Mix tiles from several different cartons to achieve the best appearance.
  • For the best visual results, the directional arrows printed on the back of the tile should be installed following the illustration in Figure 1, with tiles turned randomly, i.e. north, south, east and west.  Install planks with arrows pointing in the same direction following the illustration in Figure 2.
Special Instructions for DuraCeramic Options
 
DuraCeramic Options is designed with embossed center lines.  To create an 8"x8" format, score the embossed line(s) with a sharp utility knife (Fig. 3) and flex the tile to separate the sections (Fig. 4).  If necessary, use a sanding block with 100 grit open face sand paper to remove roughness at the separation edges.  Once DuraCeramic Options is separated, it must be grouted.
 
Fig. 3 - Score with a sharp utility knife.
 
Fig. 4 - Flex tile and separate into 8" tiles
 
FLOORING INSTALLATIONS
 
Special Installation Tools
  • Notched trowel (1/16" wide, 1/32" deep, 1/32" apart)
  • 100-pound, three-section, steel roller
  • Grout tools and spacers for grouted applications
  • 18" tile cutter - optional
Subfloor Recommendations
DuraCeramic tile and DuraPlank may be installed directly over dry concrete on all grade levels, suspended wood, qualifying old resilient floors, ceramic tile and terrazzo.  DuraCeramic tile and DuraPlank can also be installed over Congoleum UnderFlor, an optional floating underlayment system by Congoleum.
 
The surface must be clean, dry and free of dust, dirt, grease or other extraneous material that will inhibit bonding.  Thoroughly vacuum floor to remove dust.
  • Deviations in the flatness of the subfloor cannot exceed 1/16" in 1' or 3/16" in 10'.  Check the surface with a straightedge and fill low areas with a portland cement-based latex patching compound.  Gypsum-based patching compounds are not recommended.
  • The use of a high-quality latex primer that is specifically designed to improve adhesion may be used over wood, porous concrete and patching compounds prior to adhesive application.  The primer will help seal the surface and tie down dust that can interfere with the adhesive bond.  Do not use paint primers.
SUBFLOOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Subfloor Construction/Materials
    
Comments
   
 
 
Notes
Congoleum Underflor
 
  • UnderFlor is an underlayment system for floating installations of DuraCeramic and DuraPlank over a variety of substrates in lieu of direct bonding.  See detailed instructions on page 7.
 
The subfloor  surface must be smooth, solid and dry.
Wood
 
  • Double layer construction over joist or trusses on 16" centers with at least 18" of well-ventilated air space. 
  • Install 1/4" or heavier underlayment over strip wood, single layer wood floors and APA-Rated Sturd-I-Floor Systems.
 
Subfloor must be solid and free of movement.
Underlayment
 
  • APA underlayment grade plywood with fully sanded face. 
  • Hardwood and veneer underlayment panels such as Multi-Ply, HU 845 Tec-Ply and Ulay.
  • Lauan, particleboard, oriented strand board and chipboard create a higher risk for installation and adhesive failure and are not recommended unless warranted by the panel manufacturer or supplier.
  • Not recommended over cement backer-boards, glass mesh mortar units or acoustical cork.
 
Install according to panel manufacturers' written instructions
Concrete
 
  • On, above and below grade level.
  • Radiant-heated floors not to exceed 85º F (29°C)
 
Moisture vapor emissions not to exceed 5 lbs.
Light Weight Concrete (Residential Application Only)
 
  • Minimum 100-pound dry density
  • Installation over gypsum based acoustical toppings is not recommended unless Congoleum UnderFlor is used.
 
Confirm adequate adhesion to substrate.
Resilient Floor (See WARNING on inside cover)
 
  • Smooth, non-cushioned sheet flooring and vinyl composition tile.
  • Embossed non-cushioned and thin cushioned vinyl flooring can be prepared with embossing leveler in residential applications.
  • Do not install over soft, heavy cushioned floors, flooring with a cushioned backing, self-adhering tile or tile installed below grade level.
 
Must be single layer, fully adhered and well bonded.  Remove wax or polish.
Ceramic and Stone
 
  • Ceramic, marble and granite
 
Fill grout joints level
Carpet/Laminate
 
  • Not recommended.
 
Remove.
Patching Compound
 
  • Portland cement-based compound, such as Ardex Feather Finish, Mapei Plani-Patch or equal.
  • Gypsum-based patching compounds are not recommended.
 
Refer to manufacturers' instructions for use and applications.
Concrete Floors
Concrete must be clean, dry, and free of paint, curing, hardening and parting compounds, sealers, and old adhesive residue.  Moisture vapor emissions should not exceed 5 lbs./1000 ft.²/24 hrs. when tested with the calcium chloride kit.  Do not install DuraCeramic tile or DuraPlank over expansion joints; instead, cut the tile neatly to each side of the joint and fill it with an elastomeric polyurethane joint filler or cover with an expansion plate cover.
 
Wood Floors
Wood subfloors must be structurally sound and free of movement with at least 18" of well-ventilated air space below.  Single layer floors and strip wood floors must be covered with a 1/4" or heavier underlayment to achieve a total subfloor thickness of 1". Position underlayment joints so they offset the joints in the tile by at least 3".  Sand underlayment joints level and fill gaps wider than 1/32" with the recommended patching compound.
 
CONGOLEUM UNDERFLOR
The all-in-one underlayment system for floating installations of DuraCeramic tile and DuraPlank.  Congoleum UnderFlor provides an economical solution for installing DuraCeramic, DuraCeramic Options and DuraPlank as a floating flooring system over a variety of subfloor surfaces.  Now, one underlayment covers it all; wood, concrete, most old hard surface flooring, gypsum topping, even old adhesive residue in painted surfaces.  Congoleum UnderFlor is constructed in 6' wide rolls, and since it is a floating underlayment, it requires no fasteners or special tools so it's quick and easy to install.
 
Recommended Use
  • Residential applications on all grade levels
  • Interior use in dry, heated areas
  • Do not install over ramps, in showers or other wet areas
General Information
  • Always roll sheets of Congoleum UnderFlor tightly around a tube with the vinyl side out for storing and transporting.  Avoid distorting Congoleum UnderFlor.
  • Condition the room and all flooring materials at a constant temperature between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C) for 48 hours prior to, during and 48 hours after installation.
  • All UnderFlor underlayment and finished flooring must be installed with a 1/4" space around the perimeter of the room to allow for expansion and contraction of the flooring system and subfloor.  Undercut door casing and slide finished flooring under for a finished appearance.
  • Use DS100 Adhesive only for installing Congoleum DuraCeramic tile and DuraPlank over Congoleum UnderFlor.  Hard setting adhesives should not be used with Congoleum UnderFlor.
CONGOLEUM UNDERLFOR SUBSTRATE RECOMMENDATIONS
UnderFlor can be installed over the following surfaces:
Subfloor Construction/Materials
 
Comments
 
Notes
Wood Structure
 
  • Double layer construction over joist or trusses on 16" centers.
  • Single layer floors constructed with APA Rated Sturd-I-Floor T&G Panels, minimum 23/32" over joists or trusses on 16" centers.
 
Subfloor must be smooth, solid and free of movement with at least 18" of well ventilated air space below
Underlayment
 
  • APA underlayment grade plywood
  • Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
  • NPA rated Particleboard
 
Weather damaged or rough surface materials must be sanded smooth.  Gaps wider than 1/8" should be filled level
Concrete
 
  • On, above and below grade level.
  • Radiant-heated floors not to exceed 85°F (29°C)
 
Moisture vapor emissions not to exceed 5 lbs. Fill depressions and cracks wider than 1/8"
Gypsum Topping and Light Weight Concrete
 
  • Minimum 100-pound dry density
  • Minimum 2,000 psi compression rating is required.
 
Fill depressions and cracks wider than 1/8"
Resilient Floor
 
  • Smooth, or textured sheet flooring
  • Vinyl composition tile
  • Do not install over soft, heavy cushioned floors, flooring with a cushioned backing or tile installed below grade level.
 
Must be single layer, fully adhered and well bonded.
Ceramic and Stone
 
  • Ceramic, marble and granite
 
Apply skim coat(s) to level the surface
Old Adhesive Residue and Paint
 
  • Adhesive Residue - Scrape to remove heavy spots and cover with a 4 mil sheet of poly film
  • Paint - Remove loose paint
 
Follow recommended work practices for adhesive and paint removal
 
Congoleum UnderFlor Installation
Install Congoleum UnderFlor with the vinyl side down just prior to installation of finished flooring.  Determine the appropriate seam location and direction of the underlayment (depending on the finished flooring selection).
 
Important
For tile installation, position UnderFlor with seams at least 4" away from the joints in the finished floor tile. (Fig. 5)
 
For DuraPlank always install UnderFlor with seams running perpendicular to the long dimension of the plank flooring (Fig. 6).  Install planks with staggered end joints positioned at least 2" away from the seams in the Congoleum UnderFlor.
 
Unroll the first sheet and trim it to fit allowing a 1/4" space between the edge of the sheet and the wall.
 
Unroll the second sheet and position it with the seam edge butted lightly up to the first sheet.  If necessary, to adjust the seam location to ensure proper placement, overlap the sheets and double-cut a new seam in the desired location.  Use a straightedge and utility knife to cut the seam.
 
Tape the sheets together with 2" wide clear packaging tape or other thin single face plastic tape available through office supply stores and most home centers.  Apply the tape, centered directly over the top of the seam edges.  Roll the tape with a steel seam roller.
 
Suitable Packaging Tapes Include:
  • Scotch® 3850 Packaging Tape
  • Duck™ Tape Standard Packaging Tape
  • Shurtape® HP Series
Do not use masking tape, fiber reinforced tape, duct tape or other thick tapes that might telegraph through the finished flooring.
 
Install finished flooring immediately after installing Congoleum UnderFlor.
 
Installing DuraCeramic Tile and DuraPlank over Congoleum UnderFlor
 
Follow installation instructions for the finished flooring being installed.  Install finished flooring with Congoleum DS100 DuraSet Adhesive using the recommended trowel notch size.  Do not apply excess adhesive.  Allow adhesive to dry completely to a tack prior to flooring installation.  Slight growth (buckles) in the UnderFlor may occur immediately after adhesive application.  This is normal and will not affect the finished flooring installation.  Install finished flooring allowing a 1/8" ti 1/4" space around the entire perimeter.  If necessary to adjust or remove a tile or plank, use a heat gun to warm it up first.  Roll finished flooring on completion of the installation.
 
All finish trim and transition moldings must be installed so they do not bind or restrict the finished flooring from moving when expansion and contraction occurs during seasonal changes.  Fasten the trim to the wall not to the subfloor.  Do not drive fasteners into the floor or underlayment.
 
Seal all areas that may be exposed to surface spills, i.e. tubs, toilet and showers with a silicone caulking.
 
DURACERAMIC TILE INSTALLATION
 
Tile Layout
  • Layout is slightly different for grouted and ungrouted floors.  The grout line width must be added to the tile dimension for layout on grouted floors.  Additional chalk lines are also used to keep the joints straight.  Nominal tile size is 15 5/8" x 15 5/8".  DuraCeramic Options is 7 13/16" x 7 13/16" when scored and separated.
  • It is important to avoid positioning the tile joints directly over underlayment joints or seams in UnderFlor or existing flooring.  If this should occur, reposition chalk lines to offset joints by at least 3" or half of the tile dimension.
Square Layouts
  • Place a mark in the center of the floor at each end of the room.  Then snap a chalk line between the marks.
  • Find the center of the line and snap a second chalk line at a right angle; use the 3', 4', 5' method to form a right angle (Fig. 7)
Fig. 7 Square Layout
  • Make a dry layout in one quadrant along the center and perpendicular chalk lines.  Remember to allow the desired grout line space between tiles.  A story pole (board marked with tile dimensions, including grout line width) can also be used in place of a dry layout.
  • Measure the distance between the last whole tile and the wall.  If the distance is less than half a tile, snap a new chalk line one-half the dimension of a full tile away from the original chalk line (Fig. 8).  This will provide a balanced layout with larger cut tile at the border.