Hybrid Flooring Installation Guide

Pre-installation Preparations for Hybrid Flooring:

Hybrid flooring from Mike’s Carpets Flooring & Blinds Centre is entirely waterproof. However, installation requires a clean, dry, and flat subfloor, as timber substrates can react to moisture and damage the integrity of the locking system and the product’s visual appeal.

During external site inspection before installation, check ventilation for sufficient airflow, external drainage, especially garden beds against the foundation wall, external plumbing, and blocked downpipes. Internal site inspection involves fixing leaky equipment, fixtures and seals before installation.

Ensure that the subfloor levels meet the required Australian standards, as it will eliminate the risk of compromising the locking profile. The required standard is that the subfloor should be no more than a 3mm deviation. Use a straight-edge tool for levelling and record the results for future claims.

Room temperature between 15-30 degrees and humidity levels within 30-70% is considered ideal laying conditions. The floor must never be exposed to a temperature of more than 42 degrees.

Preparing the Underlay (Optional):

Most underlays can be installed using release-type adhesive. It’s a layer of soft foam or rubber underneath the hybrid planks, which gives a little cushioning effect to the floor. It minimises the effects of a slightly uneven floor and also reduces footfall noise. Generally, the underlay is pre-attached in most hybrid floors.

Installation:

Step 1:

For the first plank, first row, place a spacer 8-10mm thickness to the left and set the plank against the wall. After three rows, you can conveniently position the flooring against the front wall with 8-10mm spacers.

Step 2:

For the second plank of the first row, lay the edge of the next floorboard against the edge of the first one and place it down. Ensure that the locks are correctly placed. You can use a rubber mallet to lock the board once the board is laid down square against the next. Ensure that there is no risk of lipping and complete the first row.

Step 3:

Place a spacer of 8-10mm to the wall at the end of the first row and cut the length of the last plank to make it fit.

Step 4:

Keep the top surface facing down for a clean cut using a jigsaw, circular hand saw, or guillotine. If using a handsaw or crosscut saw, keep the surface facing up.

Step 5:

For the second row, the first plank, place the spacer against the wall with a 300mm minimum length.

Step 6:

Ensure that the minimum distance between the short ends of planks of parallel shells is not less than 200mm.

Step 7:

Take a floorboard and place it at an angle against the floorboard of the previous row, and push and fold down at the same time. You may need a rubber mallet and tapping block.

Step 8:

For the second plank second row, place the floorboard at an angle against the previously installed floorboard, and push and fold it down. Complete the second row.

Step 9:

Use a spacer 8-10mm after 2-3 rows to adjust the distance to the front wall.

Step 10:

Keep a 30mm minimum width for the last row and space to the wall 8-10mm.

Preventive Care Tips for Hybrid Flooring (Bonus):

Hybrid flooring is designed to maintain optimum functionality and timeless appeal for a long time. However, your newly installed floor will demand some maintenance care from time to time. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your flooring.

• Use protectors under heavy furniture.
• Avoid using rubber-based furniture or mat, as they may leach into your flooring.
• Keep a protective mat at every entrance of your home.
• Use a dolly while moving furniture and appliances.
• Use rugs in areas where heavy foot traffic is expected.
• Use quality mats that are effective in removing grit and moisture.
• Move the rug from time to time to avoid spot fading.
• Keep a habit of wiping all spillages, including cooking oils, animal urine, and other materials, immediately to prevent permanent staining.
• Install blinds to prevent direct exposure to the sunlight.

Summary

Hybrid floors are stylish, affordable, durable, waterproof, fade-resistant, and easy to install. To create an aesthetically pleasing interior, you can count on carefully designed hybrid flooring for significant contribution. With a complete installation guide available, you can be more confident when installing hybrid flooring in your home or office. If you need any advice or help regarding flooring and installation, don’t hesitate to contact our professionals. Mike’s Carpets Flooring & Blinds Centre is a trusted company for delivering comprehensive flooring solutions. Call us on 1300 365 887 or email us at contactus@mikescarpets.com.au.