Your Floor Buying Toolkit

Frequently Asked Questions

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BUYING COREtec

1. Where can I buy COREtec?

   We’re proud of our nationwide network of specialty flooring retailers. Click here to find a retailer near you.

2. Can I find COREtec in “big box” stores?

   Not at this time. We prefer the full service and expert advice available through our network of specialty retailers.

3. How many boxes should I buy?

   That depends on which COREtec product you choose. Just click here to open our handy Quantity Calculator.

4. Do you offer financing?

   Our network of retail flooring partners offers a range of competitive financing options through Wells Fargo to help you complete your project. Visit our retailer locator to find a retailer near you. Or for more details, visit our financing page and conveniently apply and receive a quick credit decision today.

5. What’s “wiggle room”?

   The perfect solution to an imperfect world. Whether it's flooring, wallpaper or paint, it’s always better to have more than you need instead of needing more than you have. We recommend buying 10% more than your square footage demands to guard against installation errors or other unforeseen circumstances. Just click the Wiggle Room box on our Quantity Calculator and leave the math to us.

INSTALLATION

1. Can I install my COREtec floor myself?

   Yes. Our rigid planks and tiles allow for “Floating Installation” over many existing floors, and the Angle-Tap installation is suitable for the average DIY installer. Click here for installation instructions.

2. Do I have to install my COREtec floor myself?

   Of course not. Your local COREtec retailer will be happy to provide professional installation services. And our Angle-Tap, floating installation will keep installation costs lower than many other types of flooring.

3. What tools will I need to install COREtec floors?

   The necessities are a hammer, tapping block and a pull bar. We highly recommend using ¼ inch spacers and a crosscut power saw with a blade suitable for plastics. Other basics to have on hand include a pencil, chalk line, tape measure and 3M Scotch Blue™ 2080 Tape.

4. Where can COREtec floors be installed?

   Our 100% waterproof planks and tiles can be installed in any room of your home, from basement to top floor. COREtec is an interior product and must be stored/installed in a temperature-controlled interior environment, maintained between 55 and 85 degrees F (13°- 29°C).

5. Can COREtec floors be installed over radiant heat?

   Yes. Please see the installation manual for detailed instructions and considerations.

6. Can I install COREtec floors outdoors?

   No. Well, technically you could. But you could also cover your deck in suede. Installing COREtec outdoors will negate any product warranty.

7. Do I need to leave expansion space?

   Yes. While COREtec is a very dimensionally stable product, it can experience some contraction and expansion with temperature fluctuations. The same can be said for your home's walls or any adjacent flooring. That’s why we require leaving ¼ inch space next to walls and adjoining flooring to allow for the contraction and expansion that a homes construction materials experience.

8. Can I install COREtec floor on my walls?

   Yes. COREtec floors can now be installed on walls to create stunning room accents. Most COREtec styles are approved for wall installation, with the exception of our Plus Premium, Plus Grande and Stone collections. Click for wall installation instructions.
   
   Click for wall installation instructions.

MAINTENANCE

1. When the last piece is installed, what’s next?

   First of all, sweep, dust mop or vacuum the floor to remove all loose dirt and grit. Then lightly damp mop with well wrung mop. Always use plywood or heavy cardboard when moving furniture or other heavy objects across the floor.

2. How do I clean my COREtec floor?

   Simply sweep or run a dry dust mop over it to get up the dirt, dust and grit. Avoid treated dust mops as they may leave a residue behind which can dull your floor over time. For a more thorough clean, you'll want a ph neutral cleaner, so nothing with a floor polish or detergent in it. We recommend Encore Care for Luxury Vinyl Flooring. Follow label instructions. Always pre-vacuum or dust mop before any type of wet cleaning.
   
   Do not use vacuums with rotating beater bars on hard surfaces. Stay away from steam mops, as the heat can cause the vinyl layer to curl up and peel off. Avoid using mop and shine products.

3. How do I remove spots & spills?

   As with any flooring surface, you’ll want to absorb wet spills as quickly as possible by blotting with paper or cloth towels. Rinse with water if necessary and blot dry. Dried spots should be removed by gentle agitation and rinsed with water. Blot dry.
   
   For stubborn spots that water or Encore Care for Luxury Vinyl Flooring don’t remove, use simple rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) with a clean white cloth. Do not use detergents or abrasive cleaners since these products can leave a dull residue.

4. How do I keep my COREtec floor looking good?

   The single greatest cause of damage to any flooring or floor finish is abrasion from dirt and grit. Wherever possible, use walk off mats at entrances and doorways. If mats are placed directly on COREtec floors, use mats without latex or rubber backings to avoid possible discoloration.
   
   Use non-staining floor protectors under heavy furniture, chairs, and tables. Use appropriate window coverings, as direct sunlight may fade the color of the flooring over time.

5. Will my COREtec floor need polishing?

   Maybe. Over time floors may begin to lose their luster and may require an application of floor polish. If and when you apply floor polish will depend on the traffic the floor receives. A good quality floor polish like "Hilway Direct" can provide up to a year of protection in a high traffic area. Thoroughly clean your floor, then apply 2 to 3 coats of polish following label directions and allow floor to dry overnight before heavy traffic use.