How to Prep a Concrete Subfloor for Dotfloor?

Concrete is a common subfloor material, and in general, it’s easy to prepare for Dotfloor installation project. If your concrete subfloor was just poured, you’ll need to allow it to properly cure for a minimum of 60 days before your Dotfloor installation begins.

Here’s step-by-step guide to help you prep a concrete subfloor for Dotfloor vinyl:

Step 1:

Test the moisture content of your concrete subfloor. You can do this with a moisture meter, ensuring that your reading is no more than three-pounds per 1,000 square feet per 24 hours. Another option is to tape a piece of your vinyl flooring to the concrete for 72 hours. If the flooring comes up easily, you’ll need to reduce the moisture content of the room via dehumidification and repeat the test.

Step 2:

Thoroughly clean your subfloor. Start by sweeping up any debris. You can also use a wet/dry vacuum for a deep cleaning. Just make sure your floor dries completely before moving to the next step.

Step 3:

Check your subfloor to make sure it is level. Test multiple areas using a large level. Note any low or high spots.

Step 4:

Level your floor by filling low spots with patching compound and a putty knife. Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth the area, cleaning thoroughly when you’re done.

Step 5:

Use a belt sander to reduce high spots. Clean any debris to ensure a spotless subfloor.

Step 6:

Begin your luxury vinyl flooring installation once your subfloor is clean, dry and level.

Pro Tip

You’ll need to install a vapor barrier if you’re using floating vinyl flooring. Use this guide to learn more about the differences between glue down and floating vinyl plank flooring.