Amtico Flooring Problems

When it comes to beautiful and durable flooring, Amtico Spacia often emerges as a top choice for many homeowners. However, as with any product, issues can arise if not installed or maintained correctly. One such issue revolves around the flooring lifting and separating from its base. Let’s delve deeper into the problem and explore potential solutions.

The Problem:

A homeowner recently shared their experience of installing Amtico Spacia in a kitchen/dining area. The room was unique in that one half was over concrete, while the other half was over a 6mm WBP plywood base. A few years after installation, tiles on the plywood half began lifting, particularly during warmer temperatures. Interestingly, tiles over the concrete remained perfectly intact.

Root Causes:

1. Type of Base: The issue primarily arose from the wooden half, which suggests that the base may be a significant factor. While concrete can provide a sturdy foundation, plywood can be more prone to movement, especially if not adequately prepared.
2. Inadequate Prepping: The initial layering used before laying the Amtico Spacia tiles was either latex or a thin screed. This layer is crucial as it acts as an adhesive. A subsequent analysis by a different company pointed out that a “flexi latex” was not used, causing the tiles to come away when the plywood moved.
3. Sunlight: One side of the room with the wooden base has a large window that faces the sun. Sunlight, especially when directly hitting surfaces, can cause materials to expand or contract. In flooring, this can lead to lifting if the adhesive isn’t suitable for high temperatures.

Potential Solutions:

1. Professional Assessment: It’s essential to get a professional to analyze the floor’s condition. Experts can provide a comprehensive report on what went wrong and suggest remedies.
2. Choosing the Right Adhesive: While some recommend F40 or F60 adhesives, these might not be the perfect fit. For areas receiving direct sunlight, a high-temperature adhesive is essential. This adhesive can handle the expansion and contraction caused by the heat.
3. Re-sticking the Tiles: If the tiles are in good condition and there’s just an issue of them coming loose, one could consider cleaning them off and re-sticking them. However, it’s vital to ensure that the base is prepared correctly. One suggestion was to jet wash the compound and glue off the tiles, thereby starting with clean planks. These could then be refitted after re-skimming any areas where the screed has lifted.
4. Addressing the Screed: If the screed has failed and started lifting, it may continue across the floor. The screed’s quality and whether it was primed properly can play a role. If moisture levels change, for example, due to external factors like new construction, the wooden subfloor may move, exacerbating the issue. In such cases, a comprehensive solution might involve replacing the screed.
5. Using PVA: PVA, when mixed with water, might act as a bonding agent between the screed and the concrete floor. This could be a potential DIY solution for those looking to stick the tiles back without going for a complete overhaul.

Conclusion:

Flooring is an investment, and it’s understandable that homeowners would want to maximize its lifespan. The Amtico flooring issue highlights the importance of using the right materials, preparation, and installation techniques. It also underscores the importance of consulting professionals when problems arise, ensuring a long-lasting and beautiful floor.