Amtico FAQ

Amtico can be laid in a warm environment but because the tile will experience extremes of temperature, Amtico HT Adhesive must be used. Tiles must be acclimatised to room temperature before installation, then maintained at a constant temperature while the adhesive cures. This will take several hours. You may need to protect the room from direct sunlight by covering the windows.

Does plywood need priming?

No, the wood does not need priming. Unless the ply is not brand new and may have become contaminated.

How soon after installation can I walk on an Amtico floor?

This will depend on the adhesive used and the site conditions, particularly temperature. However, it is generally okay to walk on the floor after 8-10 hours. Just try to keep movements to a minimum for the first day. Furniture should not be moved in for at least 24 hours. Remember to apply felt pads to the furniture.

How soon after installation can the floor be washed?

The floor should not be washed for 48 hours.

Can Amtico be installed on radiant (underfloor heating) floors?

Yes, providing the surface temperature does not exceed 27¡C (81¡F). Remember to switch off the heating for 48 hours before installation, and leave off until 48 hours after tcompletion. If the heating system is regularly turned up and down, the use of Amtico HT Adhesive should be used to avoid potential gapping.

Can tiles be installed over floors containing hot pipes?

Yes, tiles can be laid on a screed which incorporates hot water pipes, but these must be insulated and must be laid according to the appropriate building regulation. Insulation should be sufficient to ensure that the surface of the product does not exceed 27¡C (81¡F). Amtico HT Adhesive should be used to counteract possible expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes.

Is Amtico suitable for DIY installation?

Amtico recommends installation by a trained floor layer for best appearances and validity of the  Guarantee. DIY fitting is not recommended unless you are experienced in subfloor preparation and the layout and laying of high-quality floor tiles.

Should levelling compounds be used over plywood?

No. It should only be necessary to fill joints or surface imperfections using a suitable smoothing compound. However for uneven surfaces a fibre reinforced screed should be applied over primer.

Should tiles be pre-conditioned before being laid?

Yes. It is very important that the temperature of the area to be installed and the flooring materials must be maintained as close as practicable to a constant temperature between 18¡C (64¡F) and 27¡C (81¡F) for a period of 24 hours before, during and for 24 hours after installation. Tiles must also be stored flat at all times.

When using plywood, how should the sub-floor be levelled (when necessary)?

Levelling compounds must be applied BEFORE putting down the plywood.

Can Amtico be laid in a sun room or conservatory?

Yes, but because the tile will experience extremes of temperature, Amtico HT Adhesive must be used.

Tiles must be acclimatised to room temperature before installation and then maintained at a constant temperature while the adhesive cures, which will take several hours. It may be necessary to protect the room from direct sunlight by attaching card or paper to the windows.

Should tiles be pre-conditioned before being laid?

Yes. It is very important that the temperature of the area to be installed and the flooring materials must be maintained as close as practicable to a constant temperature between 18¡C (64¡F) and 27¡C (81¡F) for a period of 24 hours before, during and for 24 hours after installation. Tiles must also be stored flat at all times.

How long after installation should a constant temperature be maintained?

Amtico (and other flooring manufacturers) recommend that the temperature should be maintained for at least 24 hours after the installation has been completed. After this time it is important to note that if there are large changes in temperature, the floor tiles may still be liable to expand or contract. We recommend that the floor should not be allowed to cool below 13¡C during its’ service life.

Does plywood need priming?

No, the wood does not need priming. That is unless it has been laid for some time and may have become contaminated.

How do I use Amtico on floating floors?

Floating floors, often found in sun rooms and conservatories, must be overlaid with 6mm flooring grade plywood fixed in accordance with BS8203 “the code of practice for the installation of resilient flooring”. Any gaps, gouges and joints between boards must be filled using an appropriate smoothing compound.

Can Amtico be installed on radiant (under floor heating) floors?

Yes, providing the surface temperature does not exceed 27 degrees C (81 degrees F). Remember to switch off the heating for 48 hours before installation, during installation and 48 hours after the installation has been completed. If the heating system is regularly turned up and down, the use of Amtico HT Adhesive should be used to avoid potential gapping.

Is Amtico suitable for DIY installation?

Amtico recommends installation by a trained floor layer for best appearances and validity of the Guarantee. DIY fitting is not recommended unless you are experienced in subfloor preparation and the layout and laying of high quality floor tiles. Amtico Click Smart is ideal for the DIY enthusiast.

General Information FAQ

Can I use Amtico next to my Aga stove?

Yes, providing the product is not in direct contact with a hot part of the stove. Amtico should not be installed where the temperature will exceed 27 degrees C otherwise a lighter product may eventually discolour.

Who should I contact in the UK if I have a complaint?

A: In the first instance you must contact the Retailer who fitted your floor. The Retailer will examine the situation and if the claim is valid he will decide if there is a product or installation problem. The Retailer is responsible for correcting the complaint and will liaise with Amtico if replacement product is required. If the Retailer cannot deal with your complaint for some reason, and you believe the product is at fault, you should contact the UK Residential Sales Support Office, preferably in writing and copying the correspondence to the retailer involved.

Does Amtico International have a “green” policy?

Yes, Amtico works to ISO 14001 (an environmental management system) and recycles most of its manufacturing waste internally.

How about a border?

Borders are one of the many advantages of Amtico. Many floors look wonderful with the addition of a border; from a simple tram line to detailed marquetry, borders add individuality and style. A unique Amtico benefit is that any border can be recoloured with any of the Amtico products to give almost limitless opportunities to match accent colours or coordinate with other furnishings.

Is Amtico guaranteed or does Amtico offer a guarantee?

Amtico International warrants that in the event of the Amtico flooring supplied to the original purchaser under this agreement requiring replacement due to “wear-out” from normal foot traffic within twenty years from the date of purchase, the floor will be replaced free of charge.

Is Amtico slippery? 

When kept clean and dry, Amtico floors have excellent slip resistance. However, in common with other smooth floor-coverings water, other liquids, grease etc on the surface of the floor can make them slippery. Food, chemicals or other foreign matter on the floor surface will also cause them to be slippery. Any spillages must be cleaned up immediately.

What does the UK Residential Guarantee cover?

If the Amtico floor should wear-out within the guarantee period of normal foot traffic, it will be replaced free of charge. Wear-out means the removal of pattern and colour from the floor. To qualify, the floor must have been professionally installed, regularly maintained and the registration form completed. Please refer to the terms and conditions on the Guarantee for full details.

What is Amtico made from?

A: Amtico floor tiles are made from resin compounded with high quality plasticizers and stabilizers, all compressed under pressure and temperature. Many tiles closely resemble natural products, these are made from specially printed films sandwiched between a wear layer and a backing. Some tiles are engineered to have a specific emboss or a metallic appearance. Many of these manufacturing methods have been developed by and are unique to Amtico. All Amtico tiles have: – a non-porous construction – long-lasting durability – excellent appearance retention – authenticity of colours and patterns – resilience for underfoot comfort – exceptional colour-fastness – beautiful looks which are easy to maintain.

What is the super-tough urethane coating?

Amtico tiles with a smooth surface finish are protected by the addition of an extremely tough layer of urethane during manufacture. This hard coating helps to reduce scuffing and makes it easier to clean. Floor Dressing is not necessary with urethane-coated tiles unless a higher gloss lustre is preferred.

What Amtico products are suitable for heavy traffic?

All Amtico tiles are extremely durable and will not wear through under heavy traffic (provided the material has been installed and is maintained correctly). However, to maintain an attractive appearance, some surface finishes will hide more scratches and marks than others. As a general rule, use darker materials with a textured surface in heavy wear areas. Ask your representative or retailer for specific advice.

Where can I get a sample?

The easiest way is go to Request a sample  via this website. If you are in the UK, you can call: 0121 745 0868 quoting the product reference number.

Where is Amtico made?

Amtico International is proud to manufacture all Amtico flooring. This allows total control over quality and reliability of delivery. Amtico have tile manufacturing facilities in Coventry England and Atlanta Georgia, USA.

Will Amtico stain?

Amtico is resistant to most common stains but there are items which can stain such as lipstick, solvent based liquids and paste floor waxes. Prolonged contact with certain types of rubber or plastic castors, latex rug backing, fresh asphalt, rubber coated cables and rubber matting may leave a mark.

Adhesives FAQ

What are the adhesive recommendations where underfloor heating or hot water pipes are present

If the area is to be suitable, the surface of the floor must not exceed 27°C (81°F). Remember to switch off the heating for 48 hours before and after installation. Where temperatures may vary considerably, the use of Amtico HT Adhesive is strongly recommended.

Do I need to roll Amtico tiles into the adhesive?

Yes, this is very important. A (45kg) 100lb 3-section roller is recommended, and this should be done before the adhesive has set. Ideally, the floor should be rolled 1-2 hours (approx) after installation.

How do I use Amtico HT adhesive?

Always follow the instructions on the tub. Site conditions must conform to the general recommendations contained in the Amtico technical manual and BS8203. A good quality, dry subfloor is essential and, as with any installation in a high temperature area, product acclimatisation and maintenance of a constant temperature whilst the adhesive cures is VERY important.

How should I clean up adhesive residues?

Always clean away excess adhesive before it is allowed to dry – use a soft cloth moistened with Amtico Adhesive Remover to clean away adhesive residues from tiles and tools.

In what container sizes do you supply HT adhesive?

HT Adhesive is available in 5 and 15 litres.

Is Amtico HT Adhesive environmentally sensitive?

Yes – it is water based, low in VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) and classified as non-hazardous.

Should adhesives be conditioned before use?

Yes, the adhesive must be kept at a constant temperature between 18°C (64°F) and 27°C (81°F) for 24 hours before use. This is of course also true for the tiles.

What are the benefits of Amtico HT adhesive?

Unlike most two part adhesives used for hot environments, Amtico HT is a single part adhesive. So no messy mixing. It is also much more user friendly. You only need spread as much as you want at any one time and can then put the lid back on the tub. So not only is it easier to control, it is also more cost effective.

It grips the tiles almost as soon as you place them, minimising the risk of them slipping whilst fitting. It also reaches a high bond strength within the first few hours, again helping to avoid movement during fitting and allowing light traffic within 8-10 hours. And most floors can now be completed in a day, again saving labour.

What are the benefits of Universal 2-part adhesive?

Suitable where there is expectation of excessive surface moisture e.g. shower rooms.

What is adhesive open time?

Open time is the maximum period between spreading the adhesive and laying the floor tiles. For example, if the open time is quoted as 60 minutes, then the adhesive, once it has been spread onto the sub-floor, must have tiles laid into it within this time period.

What is Amtico HT adhesive?

What is Amtico HT adhesive? Amtico “HT” or high temperature adhesive is a single part acrylic adhesive for bonding Amtico PVC tiles in hot or high temperature environments e.g. conservatories.

What is SF Adhesive?

SF Adhesive is a water-based adhesive that is suitable for bonding Amtico tiles in the majority of installations. The only places in which it should not be used are areas of high temperature change, moisture or strong sunlight through glass; see Amtico HT Adhesive and Universal 2-Part for these areas.

What is the “open time” for HT adhesive?

The “open time” (or period from spreading the adhesive to when the last tile must be laid) is 30 minutes. As soon as you have finished spreading the adhesive you can start laying tiles and the last tile must be fitted a maximum of 30 minutes after the adhesive was spread. Exceeding this time will impair the transfer of the adhesive to the back of the tile and ultimately the bond and performance. This is VERY important.

What is the coverage of HT adhesive?

3 – 4 sqm per litre. So a 5 litre container will cover 15 – 20 sqm and a 15 litre container will cover 45 – 60 sqm.

What trowel size do I use for HT adhesive?

Amtico International recommends an A2 trowel for all adhesive application. However, a 1.5mm x 5mm is acceptable for use.

When using HT adhesive, do I need to roll the tiles?

The Amtico tiles should be rolled with a 45kg (100lbs) roller as soon as possible after laying and before the adhesive sets – timing will depend on site conditions but is generally 1-2 hours after spreading the adhesive.

What are the adhesive recommendations where underfloor heating or hot water pipes are present?

If the area is to be suitable, the surface of the floor must not exceed 27°C (81°F). Remember to switch off the heating for 48 hours before and after installation. Where temperatures may vary considerably, the use of Amtico HT Adhesive is strongly recommended.

Do you offer any specific warranties for HT adhesive?

Amtico HT adhesive comes with a standard manufacturer warranty, subject to terms and conditions. We do not provide any specific installation warranties, which remain the responsibility of the installer.

Why do you recommend I exercise care with certain rubber backed mats?

In some circumstances it is possible for the products used in the manufacture of the rubber to migrate onto the resilient floor and leave black stains on the tiles.

Do I need to apply Floor Dressing to an Amtico floor?

For the majority of locations the use of dressing is not necessary, but may be preferred where a shine is required. For further details please see the maintenance section or contact Amtico.

How should I protect my Amtico floor against furniture?

Table and chair legs can scratch Amtico flooring so should be protected by the application of felt pads to the underside of the feet.

How can I remove black scuff marks from my floor?

Use a cloth moistened with correctly diluted Amtico Floor Cleaner. A non-abrasive nylon scouring pad may be used for more persistent marks .It may be worth applying Amtico Floor Dressing, which could offer some additional protection.

How to remove scratches from Amtico floors?

The appearance of surface scratches can be minimised by thoroughly cleaning the floor and applying Amtico Floor Dressing.

How to clean up spillages?

Spillages should be cleaned up immediately by first wiping with absorbent paper, and then thoroughly mopped or wiped with Amtico cleaner/maintainer. The floor should then be rinsed and allowed to dry.

Can spilled liquids seep through tile edges /custom cuts?

If the tiles have been correctly installed using the recommended adhesives then spilled liquids will be restricted from seeping through the joints. As with all floors, spills must be dealt with immediately as wet floors can be slippery.

What is the best way to clean an Amtico floor?

Amtico is very easy to keep clean. Vacuum or sweep the floor with a soft, clean brush to remove any loose grit and dirt as necessary. Occasionally, around once a week, mop the floor with a damp mop using Amtico Floor Cleaner. If the floor has been dressed, the finish will need to be stripped off and reapplied from time to time – see Floor Dressing for more information.

What special care is needed for a new Amtico floor?

Do not wash a new floor for 48 hours after installation to allow the adhesive to set. The floor may then be vacuumed or swept to remove any dirt then damp mopped with clean warm water. Remove any excess adhesive by rubbing with a nylon pad moistened with Amtico Adhesive Remover.

If you decide to apply Amtico Floor Dressing please follow the product instructions carefully. In essence, carefully clean the floor with dilute Floor Dressing Remover as directed using a clean bucket and mop. Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry.

Then apply the Floor Dressing to a clean mop or cloth and spread across the floor in even strokes taking care to cover the entire floor. Follow the instructions carefully. Once the whole area has been covered, allow it to dry completely. It is recommended that a minimum of two coats of dressing are applied.

Can dogs scratch an Amtico floor?

The super-tough wear layer will provide protection from most pets. Clipping the dogs nails and/ or using Amtico Dressing to provide extra protection may be advisable.

What is the best way to clean an Amtico floor?

Amtico is very easy to keep clean. Vacuum or sweep the floor with a soft, clean brush to remove any loose grit and dirt as necessary. Occasionally, around once a week, mop the floor with a damp mop using Amtico Floor Cleaner. If the floor has been dressed, the finish will need to be stripped off and reapplied from time to time – see Floor Dressing for more information.

Can dogs scratch an Amtico floor?

The super-tough wear layer will provide protection from most pets. Clipping the dogs nails and/ or using Amtico Dressing to provide extra protection may be advisable.

We sincerely hope that the information provided proves useful to you