How should issues related to the installation of PVC flooring be defined?
Release Time:
2016-06-24
Source:
How should issues related to the installation of PVC flooring be defined?
When problems arise after PVC flooring has been installed, the question becomes: Is the issue due to the materials, or to the installation process? Since PVC first entered the market, this debate has never ceased—manufacturers offer their own explanations, installers have their own perspectives, and there is an overwhelming abundance of information on troubleshooting solutions and preventive measures. So how should we go about analyzing and pinpointing the root cause of the problem? Let’s examine this step by step:
To begin with, let’s talk about PVC flooring, which is a composite material made up of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a wear-resistant layer, a stabilizing layer, a printed decorative layer, and a UV coating. The primary components that can contribute to blistering in PVC flooring are calcium carbonate and the stabilizing layer. The proportion of calcium powder directly affects the material’s softness and toughness: too little calcium powder significantly compromises the floor’s compressive strength and formability, while too much increases compressive resistance but also adds weight and reduces flexibility. Given the characteristics of roll-form PVC flooring and issues related to packaging, excessive calcium powder most often leads to blistering at the weld seams—where the seams fail to bond properly or bond weakly, making it difficult to flatten the material after deformation, particularly at the weld lines. In addition, the presence—or absence—of a stabilizing layer also plays a role in blistering: without a stabilizing layer, the material exhibits greater thermal expansion and contraction, which can result in expansion-related blistering. Thus, blistering caused by material issues generally boils down to these two factors; all other instances of blistering are not attributable to the material itself. As for substrate-related problems, these are quite common. Adhesives and self-leveling compounds are the primary factors influencing blistering: delamination, cracking, or splitting of the self-leveling compound can all lead to blistering. Therefore, selecting high-quality auxiliary materials and engaging a professional installation team are crucial. When it comes to substrate leveling and self-leveling applications, the quality of the work depends 30% on the materials and 70% on the execution. Regarding construction practices, the initial site inspection conducted by the contractor is pivotal in determining the overall quality and service life of the project. Unfortunately, many contractors fall into the trap of complacency—a widespread problem. They know full well that certain materials should not be used on specific job sites because the subfloor conditions are simply too poor, yet they feel compelled to take on the job just to secure revenue and support their families. This mindset often leads to disputes and undermines the industry’s reputation. Consequently, the job site must meet established construction standards; if blistering still occurs even when all relevant conditions are satisfied, the root cause must lie in the installation process itself. Every step must be carried out meticulously and in strict accordance with specifications. This is not only a matter of responsibility and dedication but also of safeguarding one’s own interests. Common installation errors include cutting corners to save time, labor, and effort, failing to adhere to specifications, being careless, and relying on luck—for example, insufficient mixing time for the self-leveling compound or uneven application of the primer.
As for whether the issue stems from construction, materials, or auxiliary materials, a site inspection is required; a professional service provider can readily identify the root cause.
