Experience I have been in the field 25 years, first as a specifier, then retailer and currently manufacturer representative on contract with 8 manufacturers, independent inspector and conduct moisture testing. Founding board member of the CO Chapter, US Green Building Council
Organizations WFCA (World Floor Covering Association), NTCA (National Tile Council America) SCRT (Society of Cleaning & Restoration Technician), ASTM F60, (Environment) and F06 (Resilient Floor)
Publications Colorado Real Estate Journal, Smart Buildings
Education/Credentials MBA, CTC (Certified Tile Consultant), RRT (Carpet Repair & Reinstallation), CCT (Carpet Cleaning Technician, ISSI (Substrate Inspection) and completed coursework for Independent Ceramic Tile Inspector, Hardwood/Laminate Inspector and Senior Carpet Inspector. Scheduled to complete Independent Resilient Inspector in April.
Awards and Honors Multiple Awards for Salesperson of Year and President's Club
Past/Present Clients Clients include Fortune Co's to mom and pop
Question I bought quite a bit of 4"x 36" plank self-stick tile. The manufacturer requires clean, level, smooth concrete, using a latex floor primer first. Manufacturer says NO GLUE and NOT over luan, OSB, particle board/chip board, CCA (pressure treated plywood), hardwood flooring, masonite or other UNSUITABLE subfloor.
Whoops...I now find the HOA (has many 4-story bldgs)says floor MUST HAVE high performance UNDERLAYMENT with I.I.C. rating of 60 or more and a S.T.C. class rating of 50 or more; & VERIFICATION OF SAME.
Being 1ST FLOOR, END UNIT, a surprise requirement, but trying to comply. What underlayment choices do I have? Can I use a minus 27 factor for rates, since it will go over a 6" thick (not new) concrete floor? HOA disallows wood, parquet, ceramic, slate, marble etc. with few exceptions.
If I have to return the vinyl self-stick tile (end users love it and rave about it) what other resilient flooring (wood look) and economical, is there that might meet HOA difficult vinyl floor specs.?
Thank you for any help
Answer That is unusual and un-necessary for a 1st floor unit. But, I guess they have to be comsistant to everyone.
I like solid vinyl-- a lot-- but dont care for the self stick because of failures and limitations. I'd call the tech service dept of the manufacturer and find out if cork underlayment is suitable. Its used in many high rises for its accoustic properties.
If you have to return the product, buy the same product without the self stick properties. But talk to tech service first to assure they have an appropriate glue for use over cork, or another underlayment they suggest.
