Natural Earthwerks Sherbrooke Vinyl Plank

Dimensions: 6.5mm x 7" x 48" - 12 mil Wear Layer
Construction: WPC core with attached underlayment
Design:Engineered Luxury Vinyl Plank
Coverage: 23.64/SQ.FT
Edge Style: Beveled Edges
Finish: Tuff Shield
Install Method: Uniclic Floating
Warranty: 30 Year Residential - 20 Year Light Commercial

Baby Threshold
Multi Trim
Stair Nose

Installation Guidelines for WPC/SPC Flooring Products with Fold Down Locking System (I) Rev. 6.2024


Read entire installation guidelines prior to beginning installation. Improper installation of the flooring or deficiencies related to site conditions may result in failure of the installation and will void your warranty. Owner/installer assumes all responsibility for final inspection and acceptance of product prior to installation. Always reference EarthWerks current installation guidelines, which may be found at www.earthwerks.com .
Job-site Evaluation:

Calculate the room size prior to installation. Add 5-10% to total flooring quantity needed to cover floor surface for cutting waste.

Determine the direction the floor will be installed. It is recommended that the flooring be installed parallel to the longest outside wall or parallel to the main light source for optimal appearance.
Installations greater than 75 lineal feet (22 lineal meters) in any direction will require the use of transition moldings. Use of transition moldings in doorways is recommended.

¼” (5 mm) expansion space is required for installations up to 10 feet (3 meters) in any direction; installations with more than 10 feet (3 meters) in any direction require ½” (12 mm) expansion space at all walls and vertical obstructions (cabinets, doors, fireplaces, etc.). Expansion space will be covered with base or quarter round/shoe moldings that are affixed to the wall. Never affix moldings to the floor. Door jambs or casings should be undercut to allow for required expansion space.
While the flooring is resistant to water, it is not a moisture barrier. Temporary exposure to water (24 hours) does not affect the integrity of the floor, however prolonged exposure to moisture in the subfloor and environment can lead to mold, moisture related damage, or unhealthy indoor air quality. Although WPC and SPC are resistant to moisture, they are not to be considered moisture barriers. EarthWerks is not responsible for moisture related site conditions, or damages to flooring or surrounding structures resulting from moisture. Use of 6-mil poly film or equivalent vapor retarder with a perm rating of 1 or less is required between the flooring and cementitious subfloors.

Ensure that subfloors are dry prior to onset of installation and that a moisture barrier is installed between the ground and subfloor. Concrete should be cured and tested for moisture. It is the responsibility of the installer to determine if the concrete is dry enough for installation.
Acclimate flooring for a minimum of 12 hours prior to installation in the area where it is to be installed. Room temperature and relative humidity must be consistent with normal, year- round living conditions for at least one week prior to installation. Temperature must be maintained between 65-85 degrees F (18-29 degrees C) with relative humidity range between 35- 65%, before, during and a minimum of two weeks after installation. WPC or SPC should NEVER be installed outdoors, or in an area which does not have consistent year-round temperature and humidity controls suitable for normal living conditions.

Substrate must be clean and free of dirt, debris, or any contaminates; structurally sound; and level to within 3/16” over a 10-foot (4 mm over 300 cm) radius.

Carefully examine each piece of flooring for visible defects prior to installation. Ensure there is sufficient natural or artificial lighting for thorough inspection of the flooring with regard to finish, color, texture, and sheen. Do not install any piece of flooring that may be considered questionable in appearance or quality. Installer assumes all responsibility for acceptance of flooring installed with visible or manufacturing defects.

Work from 2-3 cartons at a time to insure the best representation of pattern, color, and design. Check cartons to ensure that the item number and lot number are the same for all material to be installed. EarthWerks is not responsible for color or sheen variation when material from multiple lots is installed.

When installing WPC or SPC with attached pad, no additional underlayment should be used. Underlayment for use with WPC or SPC products without pad attached must be specifically designated for use with WPC or SPC. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Tools needed:

Tape measure, pencil, chalk line, circular or hand saw, miter saw, utility knife, rubber mallet, expansion spacers. Use of a small bristle brush for cleaning debris left from milling the locking joints will ensure a tight fit of the pieces.
Acceptable Subfloors:

Interior grade ½” (12 mm) plywood or particleboard; ¾” (19 mm) OSB; existing hardwood floor (sound and well bonded); concrete; existing ceramic tile (well bonded); existing resilient/vinyl flooring (well bonded).
Subfloor Preparation:

All subfloors should be inspected prior to installation, and must be smooth, clean, dry, structurally sound, and free of dust, dirt, oil, or any other contaminant. Use a quality Portland cement based leveling compound to fill or smooth any irregularities in the subfloor.
Concrete subfloors must be at least 90 days old and fully cured. Concrete must be free of moisture or high alkalinity, with a minimum of 6-mil poly film moisture barrier between the ground and the concrete. Concrete must be pH neutral prior to installation. Moisture levels in concrete should be tested according to ASTM F2170-2 (standard test method for determining relative humidity in concrete floor slabs using in situ probes) with amaximum permissible RH of 75%; or ASTM F1869-98 (standard test method for measuring moisture vapor emission rate of concrete subfloor using anhydrous calcium chloride – CM method) with a maximum permissible moisture content of 3.0%.

Manufacturer does not warrant or guarantee unsatisfactory installations due to the presence of excessive alkali, moisture, or hydrostatic pressure in subfloors.

Concrete should be dry, clean, and level to within 3/16” in a 10-foot (4 mm over 300 cm) radius. Level low spots with a Portland cement based leveling compound and grind high spots to ensure floor is level.

Wood and composition panels, including plywood, OSB and particle board can be used, provided they are smooth, flat, structurally sound, and free of deflection. Wood subfloors shall have at least 18” (46 cm) of well-ventilated space below. The ground under crawl spaces must be covered with 6-mil (1.25 mm) poly film to reduce moisture vapor transmission. Wood subfloors (plywood, particleboard, OSB) must be dry and structurally sound. Wood subfloors must be double construction or equivalent, with a minimum thickness of

1” (2.54 cm), such as APA rated underlayment grade plywood with a fully sanded face that is free of voids. Nail or screw loose subflooring every 6” (150 mm) along joists to secure. Level low spots with a Portland cement based leveling compound, and sand down any high areas to ensure levelness of the substrate. All wood substrates should be prepared according to the latest revision of ASTM F1482 Installation and Preparation of Panel Type Underlayment to Receive Resilient Flooring.

WPC and SPC may be installed over some existing floor covering materials.

Existing resilient floor covering must be smooth and consist of a single layer of non-cushioned flooring which is well adhered to the subfloor. Use embossing leveler to smooth the surface and prevent telegraphing on to your new LVT/LVP. Do not install over carpet, perimeter glued resilient flooring, ceramic tile, hardwood flooring or laminate flooring.

Warning: Existing resilient floor coverings and black asphalt adhesive may contain asbestos, asbestos fiber or crystalline silica. Do not sand, scrape or abrade these materials. If removal of existing resilient floor covering is necessary, be certain that all precautions are taken, and proper procedures are followed. For information regarding proper removal procedures in the US, please refer to “Recommended Work Practices for the Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” published by The Resilient Floor Covering Institute.
Hardwood flooring must be secure and well bonded to the subfloor. Repair any loose boards or squeaks prior to installation

Ceramic tile must be secure and well bonded to the subfloor. Grout lines should be filled with Portland cement based leveling compound.

WPC and SPC flooring may be installed over in-floor hydronic radiant heat using the following guidelines. Complete system must be operational at least one week prior to installation. The system should be turned off 72 hours prior to installation and remain off 72 hours after installation is complete. After this timeframe, gradually return system to normal room temperature setting. Subfloor surface must never exceed 80 degrees F (27 degrees C) throughout the life of the floor. Flooring should never come in direct contact with the heating system. All other standard installation instructions apply.
Sweep or vacuum subfloor to remove any loose dust or dirt particles.


Starting the Installation:

Before starting, first measure the width of the room, and divide the room’s width by the width of the plank. If the last row of planks will be less than 2” (50 mm) wide, you will need to cut the first row of planks in such a way that the first and last rows will have the same approximate width.

You should begin your installation starting in the left-hand corner of the room. Measure the same distance from the wall at several points and snap a chalk line. The distance you measure from the wall should be the width of the 2 planks (or the standard width of the plank and the cut plank), plus required expansion space. Expansion spacers should be placed along all walls, and at all vertical obstructions (walls, cabinets, fireplaces, etc.), and remain in place until installation is completed.

1: Planks should be staggered, with at least 8” (200 mm) or 25% of the length of the plank between end joint of adjacent planks. No plank less than 6” (150 mm) should be installed. Stagger planks to avoid installing in a brick like pattern on alternating rows. It is very important that the first two rows are installed properly. Installation will alternate back and forth between rows one and two, for the first two rows only. The first row of planks will be placed with the grooved edge facing outward into the room.


2: Begin by cutting plank 1 in half. Position the cut end of plank 1 against the wall in the left corner of the room.


3: Use a full-length board for Plank 2 which will be installed in the second row. Align plank 2 at an angle, onto the long side of plank 1 making sure there are no gaps. Drop plank 2 to lock in place.


4: Working from the wall, insert plank 3 into the long side of plank 2.


5: Slide plank 3 to your left until the short side is in contact with the short side of plank 1. Drop the short side of plank 3 onto the short side of plank 1 making sure that there is no gap between the short side of plank 1 and plank 3.

6: Using a rubber mallet, lightly tap the joint on the short side to engage the locking system.

7: Continue alternating planks on rows 1 and 2. Ensure planks are properly aligned along the chalk line and against the spacers. Finish rows 1 and 2 in this manner, cutting planks at the end of the row as necessary. Ensure that the end planks are a minimum of 6” (150 mm) in length. If necessary, adjust the length of starter pieces to insure minimum plank lengths for each row, with proper end joint stagger row to row.

Installation of all additional rows will start by angling a plank on the long side and sliding plank to the left until the short sides are in contact. Lock the short side as instructed for rows 1 and 2 using a rubber mallet to engage locking system as described in 5.
When installing the last row, you may need to use a pull bar to lock the long side of the planks together.

Once installation is completed, remove spacers and cover expansion space with trim. Do not affix trim to the floor as this will prevent free movement of the floor.
Preventive Care:

The easiest way to maintain the optimal look and performance of your floor is to reduce the amount of dirt, grit, and moisture with an effective barrier mat. This should be cleaned regularly. The use of rubber-backed or coco-fiber mats is NOT acceptable, as they are known to stain resilient floors.
Never slide heavy furniture or fittings over an unprotected floor. Severe scratching or damage may occur as a result. The floor should be protected from wheels, casters, or feet of fittings and furniture, avoiding rubber products, which may stain the floor. Use hard plastic or felt pads under heavy furniture to prevent point loads. Non-staining felt pads can also be used, provided they are changed on a regular basis to prevent dirt, debris, and grit build-up. Wide, non-staining casters at least 2” (50 mm) in diameter, or floor protectors should be used on rolling furniture, such as office chairs.

Cabinets or heavy equipment should never be installed or placed on top of flooring. Furniture should have evenly distributed weight not exceeding 400 pounds (183 kg), with weight of point loads not exceeding 100 pounds each (45 kg). Ensure distribution points are not directly positioned over side or end joint on plank.

Furniture polish and window cleaning agents should be applied directly to a cloth to avoid overspray or spillage onto the floor. Contact with some agents, such as silicone, will make the floor surface extremely slippery, which may result in accidents.
Regular Maintenance:
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dust and loose debris, then clean with pH neutral cleaner specifically formulated for use on resilient floor covering, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and allow to dry. Always remove excess moisture to prevent slip and fall hazards. Do not use soap-based detergents, caustic, or abrasive cleaners.
Most cleaning agents will not harm the floor; however, all residue of cleaning agents should be removed immediately to avoid discoloration. The following substances may stain or discolor resilient flooring: tar, nail-polish, varnish, some spices, shoe polish, lipstick, solvent-based paints, rubber mats, coco-fiber mats, asphalt, permanent markers, crayons, hair dye.
Additional considerations for floor care:

• Never use a steam mop on the flooring. Use of steam mops may cause damage to your floor.
• Always use clean floor care applicators. Use of dirty applicators redistributes the dirt throughout the floor surface.
• Do not mix cleaning products from different manufacturers – they may not be compatible.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
• Take precautions to prevent rubber from coming in contact with the floor.
• Protective mats are recommended under castor chairs or wheeled furniture.
• Never deviate from the manufacturer’s recommended instructions for use of maintenance products.
• Use warning signs to advise that cleaning is in progress – damp floors are slippery and may present a slip/fall hazard.
• Protect against exposure to direct sunlight through use of curtains, blinds, or solar film to protect against thermal dimensional changes or discoloration from sunlight.

EarthWerks is a division of UCX Flooring, 10850 Train Court, Houston, Texas 77041

LIMITED WARRANTY WPC/SPC PLANK & TILE FLOORING rev. 6.2024

EarthWerks warrants their WPC/SPC plank and tile flooring products to be free of manufacturing defects for the length of time set forth below, from the date of purchase. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser and is not transferrable.

This Limited Warranty applies provided the recommended installation guidelines and maintenance procedures are followed. Please refer to installation guidelines in each carton for complete details on installation and maintenance or visit www.EarthWerks.com for the most current installation guidelines and maintenance procedures. EarthWerks reserves the right to inspect any claim and request photographs and/or samples prior to approving such claim.

EarthWerks will repair or replace any flooring which is proven to be defective, at the sole discretion of EarthWerks. EarthWerks will repair or replace defective material at EarthWerks’ sole discretion, with new EarthWerks product of the same or similar style, size, color, grade, and gauge. EarthWerks will pay reasonable labor costs if flooring was professionally installed. Products that were damaged in shipment, from improper handling or improper installation would not constitute a valid claim under this Limited Warranty.

EarthWerks reserves the right to final judgment regarding the approval for any repair or replacement of EarthWerks product.

WHAT THE WARRANTY COVERS:

PRE-INSTALLATION LIMITED WARRANTY
EarthWerks warrants that the product is free of manufacturing and visual defects. You and/or your installer should carefully inspect each piece prior to installation. Any pieces that appear to have defects should be set aside and should not be installed. EarthWerks will not be responsible for any claim for product installed with known manufacturing or visual defects. EarthWerks will not pay labor costs for flooring installed with known manufacturing or visual defects.

MANUFACTURING LIMITED WARRANTY
EarthWerks flooring is warranted to be free from manufacturing defects for a period of five years from the date of purchase. Should a defect occur within the stated warranty period, EarthWerks will at its sole discretion, repair or replace that portion of the flooring determined to be defective, with new EarthWerks product of the same or similar style, size, color, grade, and gauge.
WEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
EarthWerks flooring is produced with a protective wear layer. EarthWerks warrants that there will be no wear-through of the wear layer for the number of years indicated in the table below for each flooring type and specific wear layer thickness, due to normal wear, traffic or recommended maintenance. “Wear-through” refers to complete loss of the wear layer so that the printed design layer is changed or affected. Should wear-through of the wear layer occur, EarthWerks will at its sole discretion, repair or replace that portion of the flooring determined to be defective, with new EarthWerks product of the same or similar style, size, color, grade and gauge.

Wear Layer Thickness Product Type Residential Limited Warranty Light Commercial Limited Warranty Manufacturing Limited Warranty Labor Year 1 Labor Year 2 Labor Year 3 Labor Year 4 Labor Year 5 +
12mil SPC 30 years N/A 5 years 100% 50% 40% 30% N/A
20mil+ SPC Lifetime N/A 5 years 100% 50% 40% 30% N/A
12mil WPC 30 years 20 years 5 years 100% 50% 40% 30% N/A
20mil+ WPC Lifetime 30 years 5 years 100% 50% 40% 30% N/A

Wear Limited Warranty in multi-family units and common areas will be covered under the specific Commercial Wear Limited Warranty associated with the product.
If corrective action is taken on an existing defect, you will continue to receive limited warranty coverage for the remaining period of your original limited warranty.

Labor must be provided by a certified professional flooring installer, using the guidelines put forth by EarthWerks in the installation guidelines and maintenance procedures. The cost of repair or replacement labor by a professional installer will be paid according to reasonable and customary labor rates approved by the EarthWerks Resolutions Department.

WHAT THE WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER:

• Dissatisfaction or damage caused by improper installation, improper adhesive, improper or insufficient maintenance.
• Differences in color between actual product and samples, or printed illustrations.
• Damage caused by excessive moisture, mold, mildew, alkali, or hydrostatic pressure.
• Damage to surrounding structure, walls, subfloor, fixtures, furniture, moldings, trims, heating elements, or anything that is not the floor plank or tile.
• Damage resulting from floods, standing water, plumbing, or appliance leaks.
• Damage caused by smoke, fire, or other casualty.
• Damages caused by negligence, improper use, or abuse to include scuffs, scratches, indentations, cuts, tears, burns, stains, or damage from heavy objects or abrasive materials.
• Damage or stains from rubber backed or cocoa-fiber mats.
• Damage resulting from lack of or improper furniture protection, rolling caster chairs, or rolling loads.
• Reduction of gloss from use.
• Color or gloss variation resulting from different lot numbers.
• Damage from exposure to extreme heat or sunlight. Window coverings should be used to avoid damage from prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat.
• Products sold “as is”, or products sold as irregulars, seconds, or other than first quality materials.

WARRANTY SERVICE:

Warranty service provided by UCX Flooring, 10850 Train Court, Houston, Texas 77041. To obtain a Request for Evaluation Form and/or warranty information, you may call 1-800-929-1222 (Attention: Resolutions Department). Any claim under this Limited Warranty must include a Request for Evaluation form properly filled out and accompanied by dated proof of purchase or invoice. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS. YOU MAY HAVE OTHER RIGHTS THAT VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.

This limited warranty is made solely to the original purchaser of EarthWerks flooring products and is not transferable under any circumstances. Limited warranty period begins on date of purchase. This limited warranty is expressly in lieu of any other expressed warranty whether oral or written. No representative, employee, or agent of EarthWerks, or any other person, is authorized to assume for EarthWerks any additional liability or responsibility in connection with EarthWerks products. Consequently, agents, employees, distributors, and dealers of EarthWerks are not authorized to make modifications to this limited warranty, or additional warranties on behalf of EarthWerks. Accordingly, additional statements such as dealer advertising or presentations, whether oral or written, do not constitute warranties by EarthWerks and should not be relied upon. IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY ARE LIMITED TO A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. IN ANY CASE, EARTHWERKS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INDIRECT OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING FROM BREACH OF LIMITED WARRANTY, BREACH OF CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE OR OTHER LEGAL THEORY EVEN IF EARTHWERKS OR ITS AGENTS HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

EarthWerks reserves the right to modify or change this warranty at any time. This warranty is effective for all products purchased after June 1, 2024.

MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LUXURY VINYL TILE AND PLANK

PRIOR TO INSTALLATION
The home must have a working heat and air conditioning source that is operational for a minimum of one week prior to installation and remain in operation throughout the life of the floor. Conditions should be at the same temperature and relative humidity level expected during normal use (between 65-85F/18-29C, with a relative humidity no greater than 65%).


PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND TIPS FOR FLOOR CARE
The easiest way to maintain the optimal look and performance of your floor is to reduce the amount of dirt, grit, and other contaminants with an effective barrier or walk-off mat. This should be cleaned regularly. The use of rubber-backed or coco-fiber mats is NOT acceptable, as they are known to discolor resilient floors.
Never slide heavy furniture or fittings over an unprotected floor. Severe scratching or damage may occur as a result.
The floor should be protected from wheels, castors or feet of fittings and furniture, avoiding rubber products, which may stain the floor. Protective mats should be used under office chairs with castors or wheeled furniture.
Use hard plastic or felt pads under heavy furniture to prevent point loads.
Use flat, polished metal or nylon glides with a minimum diameter of 1” (25 mm) under chairs and stools. These should have a rounded edge and pivot to remain in flat contact with the floor. Non-staining felt pads can also be used, provided they are changed on a regular basis to prevent dirt, debris, and grit build-up.
Wide, non-staining castors at least 2” (50 mm) in diameter, or floor protectors should be used on rolling furniture, such as office chairs.
Furniture polish and window cleaning agents should be applied directly to a cloth to avoid overspray or spillage onto the floor. Contact with some agents, such as silicone, will make the floor surface extremely slippery, which may result in accidents.
BASIC CLEANING
Once all traces of adhesive have been removed, the floor should be vacuumed to remove all dust and loose debris, then cleaned with pH neutral cleaner specifically formulated for use on resilient floor covering in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and allowed to dry.
Always remove excess moisture to prevent slip and fall hazards. Excess moisture may also impact adhesive, breaking the bond, and causing the flooring to release from the substrate.
Do not use soap-based detergents, caustic, or abrasive cleaners. Do not use steam mops.
SPOT PROTECTION AND STAIN REMOVAL
Most domestic cleaning agents will not harm the floor; however, all residue of any cleaning agent should be removed immediately to avoid discoloration.

Corrective Action:
1. Wipe up immediately with a clean cloth
2. The area should then be treated with a diluted pH neutral cleaning agent, using a damp cloth or sponge
3. Obstinate spots may require use of a nylon sponge
4. Should the spot still remain, moisten a cloth with clear odorless mineral spirits and rub in a circular motion over the area. Always test in an inconspicuous area to check for compatibility of the mineral spirits and flooring. Note: only use mineral spirits in well-ventilated rooms.

The following substances may stain or cause discoloration of resilient flooring:
Tar, nail-polish, varnish, some spices, shoe polish, paints containing acetone, lipstick, solvent-based paints, rubber mats, coco-fiber mats, asphalt, permanent markers, crayons, hair dye


Additional considerations for floor care:
• Sweep, mop or vacuum the floor regularly.
• Never use a steam mop on the flooring. Use of steam mops may cause damage to your floor.
• Always use clean floor care applicators. Use of dirty applicators redistributes the dirt throughout the floor surface.
• Do not mix cleaning products from different manufacturers – they may not be compatible.
• Always wipe up spills immediately.
• Always remove excess moisture from floor.
• Always take precautions to prevent dark rubber from coming into contact with the floor.
• Never deviate from the manufacturer’s recommended instructions for use of maintenance products.
• Always use warning signs to advise that cleaning is in progress –slippery floors present a slip/fall hazard
• Always protect against exposure to direct sunlight through use of curtains, blinds, or solar film to protect against thermal dimensional changes.


Revised 2.2022