Concrete subfloors give off supplementary moisture whether above, on or below grade. Initially, check the moisture by taping a 2 ft. x 2 ft. piece of polyethylene film in at least 2 or 3 locations (more in large areas). A rubber backed mat can be used instead of the polyethylene film. Indications of a high moisture content include darker or discolored concrete, cloudy polyethylene film or condensation on the underside of the film.

If there are any indications of a high moisture content, use a test method that will determine the exact moisture content of the slab based on its dry weight, or use a calcium chloride test. When using the Pergo 8-mil polyethylene vapor barrier, the moisture content must not exceed 2.5% on a dry weight basis otherwise the floor cannot be installed. With a calcium chloride test, the maximum acceptable reading is 5 lbs/24 hours/1,000 sq.ft.

New concrete floors must be fully cured prior to installation.

On concrete subfloors, you must use the Pergo 8-mil polyethylene film as a vapor barrier. The edges must overlap by at least 8 inches. The polyethylene film is needed over all subfloors that contain concrete.

Old vinyl, vinyl tile and linoleum floors usually do not need to be removed before installing your Pergo floor. If the floor is level, Pergo can be installed on top.

Please note: If the vinyl tile is installed over concrete, Pergo Polyethylene film must be used as a vapor barrier.

Carpeting must always be removed - it is the one flooring material that a floating floor cannot ever be installed on top of. If the carpeting has been glued to the subfloor, be sure to clean the surface thoroughly of glue residues.

Old ceramic tiles normally don't need to be removed. In most cases, Pergo can be installed over ceramic tiles and terrazzo. The floor must be leveled to within 3/16" in a 10-foot radius.

Note: Always use the Pergo Polyethylene film if the subfloor is concrete.

Wood subfloors must have a stable moisture content between 6 and 10%.

Creaking wood subfloors must be repaired before installation. If the subfloor sags, inspect the joists below for twists or weakness. If the subfloor is cupped or uneven at the joints, recheck the moisture content of the floor to make sure it is in the 6-10% range. Check for excessive moisture in the crawl space or basement and look for other signs of a potential water problem.

High areas should be sanded or planed, low areas patched or filled with an appropriate leveling compound, or covered with a rigid underlayment. When using a leveling compound, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and allow the compound to dry completely before starting to install the Pergo floor.

Polyethylene film must not be used on top of wood floors or subfloors. Instead, use Pergo Foam or Whisperwalk.

Plank or parquet floors glued directly to a concrete floor must be removed first before installing Pergo. Clean glue residue, apply the vapor barrier and your choice of our underlayments, and then install Pergo.