Durato Flooring FAQ

Direct Answer:
Yes. SPC and LVT flooring can be installed over concrete as long as the subfloor is clean, dry, and level.

Why It Happens:
Concrete subfloors can retain moisture, and uneven areas may affect the performance of the flooring over time.

What To Do Next:
Always test for moisture before installation and make sure the concrete meets flatness and preparation requirements outlined in the installation guide.

Direct Answer:
In many cases, no. Most resilient floor products with an attached pad do not require an additional underlayment.

Why It Happens:
Adding an extra underlayment when it is not recommended can create too much movement under the floor, which may affect locking system performance.

What To Do Next:
Check the product specifications and installation instructions before installing. If sound control or other performance features are needed, confirm which underlayments are approved for use.

Direct Answer:
A proper expansion gap must be left around the perimeter of the room and around all fixed objects.

Why It Happens:
All floating floors need room to expand and contract with normal changes in temperature and humidity.

What To Do Next:
Follow the product-specific installation instructions for required spacing and transition guidelines, especially in larger areas or long runs.

Direct Answer:
Yes, in many cases you can install over an existing hard surface floor if it is flat, stable, and properly prepared.

Why It Happens:
Existing floors that are uneven, soft, loose, or damaged can create movement that leads to installation problems.

What To Do Next:
Inspect the existing floor carefully before installation. Do not install over carpet or any unstable surface. Follow the product-specific installation instructions for more information on approved subfloors.

Direct Answer:
Most flooring products should be acclimated in the installation space for the time period listed in the installation instructions.

Why It Happens:
Acclimation allows the product to adjust to the temperature and conditions of the room before installation begins.

What To Do Next:
Store the flooring in the installation environment and maintain recommended room conditions before, during, and after installation.

Direct Answer:
Floor separation or gapping is usually caused by installation issues, movement in the subfloor, or improper expansion spacing.

Why It Happens:
If planks are not fully engaged during installation, or if the floor cannot move naturally, gaps may appear over time.

What To Do Next:
Review the installation method, check perimeter expansion space, and inspect the subfloor condition.

Direct Answer:
Buckling or lifting is most often caused by restricted expansion or excess moisture.

Why It Happens:
When flooring cannot expand properly, pressure builds and may force planks upward. Moisture can also affect subfloor conditions and overall stability.

What To Do Next:
Check for tight areas around walls, cabinets, islands, or transitions, and evaluate the jobsite for moisture issues.

Direct Answer:
A hollow sound is usually related to subfloor unevenness.

Why It Happens:
When the subfloor is not properly leveled, there may be small gaps beneath the flooring that create a hollow sound underfoot.

What To Do Next:
Make sure the subfloor meets all flatness requirements before installation. Proper subfloor preparation is essential for best results.

Direct Answer:
Edge damage is often caused by improper handling, installation technique, or heavy surface wear from furniture and rolling loads.

Why It Happens:
Forcing planks together, using incorrect tools, or not following the recommended locking method can damage the edges or locking system. Additionally, dragging heavy furniture or using chairs with hard caster wheels can put excessive stress on plank edges, leading to chipping or breakage over time.

What To Do Next:
Handle planks carefully during installation and follow the installation instructions closely. Avoid dragging furniture across the floor and always use felt pads under furniture legs. For office chairs or rolling loads, use a protective chair mat to prevent concentrated wear. For ongoing protection and best practices, please refer to our care and maintenance guide. Replace any damaged boards before continuing installation.

Direct Answer:
Yes, many flooring products can be installed in a basement when moisture conditions are properly addressed.

Why It Happens:
Basements are more likely to have elevated moisture levels, which can impact flooring performance if not managed correctly.

What To Do Next:
Test the subfloor for moisture and follow all moisture barrier, adhesive, and installation recommendations before beginning the job.

Direct Answer:
Moisture levels must fall within the limits stated in the installation instructions and adhesive guidelines, when applicable.

Why It Happens:
Excess moisture in the subfloor can lead to flooring movement, mold concerns, adhesive issues, and other performance problems.

What To Do Next:
Use the appropriate moisture test method for the jobsite and confirm that results meet installation requirements before proceeding.

Direct Answer:
Many of our flooring products are waterproof, meaning the product itself is designed to resist water.

Why It Happens:
SPC and many LVT products are built with materials that perform well in environments where spills and everyday moisture are present.

What To Do Next:
Even when the flooring is waterproof, the subfloor must still be dry and properly prepared. Waterproof flooring does not eliminate the need for moisture testing.

Direct Answer:
SPC is a rigid core flooring designed for durability, WPC offers a softer and quieter feel underfoot, and LVT is a flexible flooring option often used in glue-down applications.

Why It Happens:
Each type of flooring is built differently to meet different performance needs, environments, and installation methods.

What To Do Next:
Choose the product based on the space, traffic level, comfort preferences, and installation requirements. Visit our product pages to compare options.

Direct Answer:
The right wear layer depends on the traffic level and end use of the space.

Why It Happens:
A thicker wear layer provides greater protection against scratches, scuffs, and daily wear.

What To Do Next:
For many residential spaces, a lighter wear layer may be sufficient. For busy households, multi-family, retail, office, and hospitality applications, a heavier wear layer is often the better choice.

Direct Answer:
Yes, many of our flooring products are suitable for commercial use.

Why It Happens:
Commercial spaces require flooring that can handle heavier traffic, rolling loads, and more frequent wear.

What To Do Next:
Review the product specifications and choose a floor with the right construction and wear layer for the application.

Direct Answer:
Yes. Many of our flooring products are designed to perform well in active homes, including homes with pets.

Why It Happens:
Durable wear layers help protect against daily wear, scratches, and spills.

What To Do Next:
For best long-term performance, keep pet nails trimmed, clean up accidents promptly, and use protective pads under furniture. For additional care tips and maintenance guidelines, please refer to our care and maintenance guide.

Direct Answer:
The best flooring choice depends on the space, traffic level, installation method, and performance needs.

Why It Happens:
Different environments call for different solutions. A residential bedroom, busy retail space, and hospitality project may all require different flooring features.

What To Do Next:
Think about where the floor will be installed, how much traffic it will receive, and whether waterproof performance, comfort, or commercial durability is most important. You can also contact our team for product guidance.