Question 1

How do I measure my room&#8217;s square footage (SQFT or sq. ft.)?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way is to use one of our free Project Planning Tools. Create a floor plan with our Room Estimator or use your smartphone camera to quickly measure your room and calculate its square footage. Visit https://www.lionsfloor.com/measurement-tool/ to get&hellip;

Question 2

How do I calculate how much flooring I need?

Accepted Answer

Measure the total square footage of your room, divide it by the square footage covered per carton, and round up to the next full box. Most flooring projects also require additional material for cuts, trimming, and installation adjustments. Our free&hellip;

Question 3

Which vacuum do you recommend?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor does not endorse any specific vacuum brand or model. Instead, we recommend using a vacuum designed for hard surface floors that does not use a rotating beater bar or stiff brush roller during operation.

Question 4

Is WPC flooring pet-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, WPC flooring is a pet-friendly option. It resists scratches and stains, making it suitable for households with pets.

Question 5

Why is a moisture barrier recommended on SPC

Accepted Answer

SPC floors can resist everyday surface moisture, but moisture vapor can still move through concrete or other substrates. A moisture barrier (when required by the installation instructions) helps reduce moisture vapor transmission and protects the subfloor system and the flooring&hellip;

Question 6

Can WPC flooring be refinished like hardwood?

Accepted Answer

No, WPC flooring cannot be refinished. However, it is designed to be long-lasting, and many products come with a protective wear layer that enhances durability.

Question 7

How does WPC flooring differ from traditional hardwood?

Accepted Answer

Unlike hardwood, WPC flooring is more resistant to water damage, making it a great choice for areas prone to moisture. It's also more durable and less prone to scratches and dents.

Question 8

Is WPC flooring suitable for all areas of the home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, WPC flooring is versatile and can be used in various spaces, including kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, as it is resistant to moisture and humidity.

Question 9

Can I use a third party underlayment for my floors?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor does not warrant or endorse the use of any third-party underlayment products, whether or not the flooring includes a pre-attached pad. However if you wish to use an additional underlayment, we suggest using a floor muffler encore 1.1&hellip;

Question 10

Can an underlayment fix uneven surfaces?

Accepted Answer

No. Our underlayment wasn't designed to fix uneven surfaces.

Question 11

Can I use a steam mop to clean my new floors?

Accepted Answer

Steam mops should not be used on SPC, WPC, laminate, Loose Lay or luxury vinyl plank flooring. Damages associated with steam mop use will void the warranty coverage. High heat and steam pressure may damage the protective wear layer and&hellip;

Question 12

Do I need an underlayment for stairs?

Accepted Answer

No. Underlayment is not used for stairs, these pieces are usually glued-down to prevent movement.

Question 13

Which underlayment should I use for each flooring type?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the flooring type, pad and the subfloor. SPC & WPC (floating rigid core): Most Lions Floor products include an attached pad. As a general rule of thumb, we highly recommend using our UL-MB6 6-mil polyethylene moisture barrier&hellip;

Question 14

Will Lions Floor warrant a 1.8mm underlayment due to thickness and material used?

Accepted Answer

No. The product is 1.8 mm which will allow some deflection and could damage the lock system. The problem would be tongue breaking. Lions Floor does not warrant or endorse the use of any third-party underlayment products, whether or not&hellip;

Question 15

Can FormaLay be installed over existing floors?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes FormaLay can be installed over many existing hard-surface floors (such as vinyl, VCT, concrete, wood, or ceramic tile) if the existing floor is clean, firmly bonded, and properly prepared. Do not install over carpet or any surface that&hellip;

Question 16

Is an underlayment required for laminate?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor generally recommends using an underlayment for most flooring installations to help improve moisture protection, sound absorption, and overall floor performance. Underlayment needs can vary depending on factors such as the installation environment, subfloor conditions, and desired acoustic performance.&hellip;

Question 17

What is an AC rating for Laminate floors?

Accepted Answer

The AC rating for laminate floors refers to the Abrasion Class rating. The AC rating primarily evaluates the durability and resistance of laminate flooring to a variety of factors such as scratches, stains, burns, and impact. It helps consumers and&hellip;

Question 18

What is Laminate Flooring?

Accepted Answer

Laminate flooring is a durable, wood-look option built with multiple layers, including a protective wear layer, a high-definition visual layer, and a high-density core for stability. Modern laminate collections offer significantly improved waterproof qualities, compared to older generations, but they&hellip;

Question 19

What is LVP flooring?

Accepted Answer

With its flexible properties, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) can cater to a diverse range of customers on both the residential and commercial side. Featuring a fiberglass-reinforced structure, the product delivers dimensional stability that yields high traffic tolerance. As a glue&hellip;

Question 20

Is glue down luxury vinyl plank (LVP) approved for use with rolling chairs?

Accepted Answer

Office chairs in a commercial or in a home office setting are always rolling in a confined area at desks. The glue down planks, when glued properly, will not move or come loose. The problem is constant rolling on the&hellip;

Question 21

What is WPC flooring and how is it different from SPC?

Accepted Answer

WPC (wood polymer composite) rigid core flooring uses a composite core that can provide a slightly softer, more cushioned underfoot feel. SPC (stone polymer composite) uses a denser stone-based core that tends to feel firmer underfoot and offers excellent dimensional&hellip;

Question 22

What is a click-lock (floating) installation?

Accepted Answer

Click-lock flooring uses an interlocking profile that connects planks together and allows the floor to float over the subfloor instead of being glued or nailed. This system can make installation faster and can be helpful over properly prepared subfloors with&hellip;

Question 23

What are the layers in glue-down LVP/LVT?

Accepted Answer

Glue-down LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) and LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) are multi-layer flooring products designed for durability and long-term performance. Lions Floor District LVP glue-down products consist of the following layers: Wear Layer — A clear protective top layer that&hellip;

Question 24

Does loose lay flooring stay in place?

Accepted Answer

Yes when installed correctly. Loose lay flooring is designed to remain stable due to its weight and backing grip, but performance depends on proper subfloor preparation. For best results, the subfloor must be flat, clean, and structurally sound. In many&hellip;

Question 25

Is FormaLay DIY friendly?

Accepted Answer

FormaLay can be DIY-friendly for experienced DIYers, especially in straightforward rooms. However, correct subfloor preparation and the proper use of perimeter adhesive/rolling requirements are critical for long-term performance. For best results especially in larger spaces, complex layouts, or higher-traffic areas&hellip;

Question 26

What is loose lay flooring?

Accepted Answer

Loose lay flooring is a resilient vinyl plank format designed to install quickly with minimal adhesive. It relies on the products weight and backing grip to help it lay flat, and it is commonly installed with perimeter adhesive or other&hellip;

Question 27

What is SPC flooring?

Accepted Answer

SPC flooring is a modern and durable option that combines the best of both worlds: the beauty of natural wood and the practicality of vinyl. What sets Stone Polymer Composite vinyl flooring apart from other flooring is the nature of&hellip;

Question 28

Is it okay to lay down a jute rug on SPC immediately following installation?

Accepted Answer

Some rugs with a rubberized backing can discolor vinyl flooring. All new bathroom and kitchen rugs now say on the tag that it does not discolor hard surface flooring. Most rugs are fine and can be put on top of&hellip;

Question 29

Is it okay to have a refrigerator sit on top of the flooring?

Accepted Answer

A refrigerator sitting on top of SPC flooring will not void the warranty. It is recommended that a protective surface by used when moving the refrigerator both in and out of this space. A thin underlayment board or protective shield&hellip;

Question 30

Can I put an additional sound barrier underneath SPC?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, an additional sound barrier can be installed beneath SPC flooring. However, it must be specifically designed for use with rigid core flooring and should not exceed 1 mm in thickness. Using underlayment that is too thick can&hellip;

Question 31

Can I put a piano or pool table over SPC?

Accepted Answer

Pianos and pool table will be ok as the weight is distributed. The bigger the cast under each foot the better and ultimately the floor flatness. 1/4” perimeter gap is a must.

Question 32

Can I glue down SPC flooring?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although not recommended. Please refer to the product installation guide for specific instructions on how to glue-down our SPC floors.

Question 33

When should I use loose lay flooring?

Accepted Answer

Loose lay flooring is a great choice when you want a fast installation, easier plank replacement, and a solution that performs well in active residential or light commercial spaces. It’s commonly used for remodels, occupied spaces, and projects where downtime&hellip;

Question 34

What type of adhesive should I use for FormaLay?

Accepted Answer

Use LionsGrip™ adhesive for approved installations. FormaLay is typically installed with perimeter adhesive or other methods based on the room size, traffic level, and substrate. Always follow the FormaLay installation guide as well as LionsGripTM for trowel type, open time,&hellip;

Question 35

Is your flooring pet friendly?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, all of our floors are highly durable and scratch-resistant, making them perfect for our four-legged friends.

Question 36

What does VOC mean in flooring?

Accepted Answer

"VOC," or Volatile Organic Compounds, are chemicals that can evaporate into the air from certain flooring materials, potentially affecting indoor air quality and health. At Lions Floor, we prioritize your well-being by offering flooring products that meet stringent emissions standards,&hellip;

Question 37

What does it mean to be FloorScore® Certified?

Accepted Answer

FloorScore® is the most recognized indoor air quality (IAQ) certification standard for hard surface flooring materials, adhesives, and underlayment's. It was developed by SCS (Scientific Certification Systems), a third party certifier, with the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI), a leading&hellip;

Question 38

What is AB film?

Accepted Answer

AB film refers to a flooring design technique where two slightly different decorative film patterns—often labeled “A” and “B”—are alternated during production to create a more natural-looking floor. Both film patterns share the same overall color tone but feature subtle&hellip;

Question 39

What is a beveled edge in flooring?

Accepted Answer

A beveled edge is a small, angled edge along each plank that creates a subtle groove where the boards meet. This detail helps define each plank, giving the floor more depth and a look that's closer to real hardwood.

Question 40

What is luxury vinyl flooring made of?

Accepted Answer

There are many different types of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring and as a result the materials they are made from can vary, but generally all Luxury Vinyl is made of layers which typically include a wear layer, an image&hellip;

Question 41

What is the difference between a micro bevel &#038; a painted bevel edge?

Accepted Answer

The micro bevel shaves the wear layer down at a slight angle to create a distinct look for each flooring piece, and it assists in mitigating subfloor inconsistency. A painted bevel is considered an upgrade to a micro bevel finish.&hellip;

Question 42

What is “Embossing in Register” (EIR)?

Accepted Answer

What is “Embossing in Register” (EIR)? ‘Embossing in register’ or EIR is a manufacturing technique we use to create a grain consistent with the photographic image. The texture follows the characteristics of the wood grain pattern to make the product&hellip;

Question 43

What&#8217;s the difference between LVP and LVT?

Accepted Answer

LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) and LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) are made from the same vinyl flooring construction. The main difference is the shape and visual design LVP is designed to look like hardwood planks, while LVT is designed to resemble&hellip;

Question 44

Which gloss finish is best for higher foot traffic?

Accepted Answer

Low-to-medium finish is better for high traffic area since it's more forgiving of everyday wear and tear.

Question 45

Will I see a repeating pattern?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor collections are designed with multiple plank variations ranging from as few as 5 unique designs to as many as 30, depending on the collection. These variations help reduce the appearance of repetition and create a more natural-looking floor.&hellip;

Question 46

Is luxury vinyl flooring waterproof?

Accepted Answer

Many Lions Floor vinyl floors are designed to be waterproof at the surface for everyday spills and moisture. However, waterproof does not eliminate the need for proper subfloor preparation and moisture control. Always use the required vapor/moisture barrier (when applicable),&hellip;

Question 47

How may I obtain a sample?

Accepted Answer

Samples are available through authorized Lions Floor retailers. To request a sample, please contact your local dealer. You can find the nearest retailer by visiting: https://www.lionsfloor.com/find-a-retailer/

Question 48

How durable is luxury vinyl?

Accepted Answer

The lasting beauty or durability of the floor is a top priority for many homeowners. Durability not only ensures that you get the best value for your dollar, it also means that your floors will stay looking great for years&hellip;

Question 49

Why is my laminate making popping sounds when I walk on it?

Accepted Answer

As the weather changes, the waxed joints in laminate flooring can expand and contract, occasionally causing the planks to stick together and separate, this is what creates the popping sound you’re hearing. We recommend applying talc powder along the seams&hellip;

Question 50

Are your products tested in the USA?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor products undergo rigorous testing through independent, accredited laboratories located in both the United States and internationally. These laboratories verify that our flooring meets recognized industry standards for durability, safety, and indoor air quality. Testing may include evaluations for&hellip;

Question 51

Can my new floor withstand heavy weight?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Lions Floor rigid core products are engineered to withstand typical residential and commercial loads, including furniture and appliances, when properly installed. For extremely heavy items such as large kitchen islands, safes, aquariums, or commercial equipment, we recommend reviewing the&hellip;

Question 52

Does luxury vinyl flooring require an underlayment?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor generally recommends using an underlayment for most flooring installations to help improve moisture protection, sound absorption, and overall floor performance. Underlayment needs can vary depending on factors such as the installation environment, subfloor conditions, and desired acoustic performance.&hellip;

Question 53

How are rigid core print films made? Which species are most popular in rigid core visuals? How many unique planks can be achieved using print films?

Accepted Answer

Rigid core prints are commonly made with digital prints of wood flooring and reprinted on vinyl paper. The most popular species at this moment will be Oak, and we are seeing an increasing demand of Hickory and Maple this year.&hellip;

Question 54

How are the different gloss options affected by lighting?

Accepted Answer

Abundant natural lighting can give high-gloss floors a glare. Matte finishes diffuse light. All Lions Floor products have a matte finish.

Question 55

Do you recommend an underlayment when installing your flooring?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor recommends using an appropriate underlayment for most flooring installations. Underlayments can help provide moisture protection, improve sound absorption, and enhance overall floor performance. Always check subfloor moisture levels before installation and follow the recommended installation guidelines for your&hellip;

Question 56

Do I need glue with Uniclic® locking mechanism?

Accepted Answer

No, not for standard flooring installs. Follow the product installation guide if a full spread glue down is desired.

Question 57

Can I install my new flooring under cabinets?

Accepted Answer

Installation of cabinets, island and peninsula countertops, vanities, tubs, and showers must be done first on any floating flooring installation. Then the floor planks can be installed around them. Glued-down LVP flooring can be installed under cabinets.

Question 58

Can I install luxury vinyl flooring over existing flooring?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes, however please refer to product specific installation instructions.

Question 59

How do manufacturers create realistic wood-look vinyl visuals?

Accepted Answer

Realistic wood-look vinyl visuals are created using high-resolution printed design layers and surface texture. Many collections also use multiple plank variations (pattern repeats) so installations look more natural with less obvious repetition from plank to plank.

Question 60

What is Embossed-in-Register (EIR)?

Accepted Answer

Embossed-in-Register (EIR) is a manufacturing technique where the surface texture is aligned to the printed wood grain or pattern. The result is a more authentic look and a more realistic feel underfoot compared to a generic, repeating emboss.

Question 61

Which vinyl flooring is best for commercial spaces?

Accepted Answer

For commercial projects, product selection depends on traffic level, rolling loads, maintenance expectations, and project specifications. Many commercial spaces use higher-wear-layer rigid core (SPC/WPC) or commercial-grade glue-down LVP/LVT systems. For a specific project, match the collections wear layer, warranty, and&hellip;

Question 62

Do commercial vinyl flooring trends differ from residential?

Accepted Answer

Commercial projects often prioritize practical visuals that help hide everyday soil and support easier maintenance, while residential selections more often focus on light, natural wood looks and design preference. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the space, lighting, and expected&hellip;

Question 63

Where is your flooring manufactured?

Accepted Answer

Lions Floor products are manufactured through trusted global facilities in Asia.

Question 64

Do you recommend installing in high heat and humid areas, such as, near a fireplace, under a stove, or in a bathroom?

Accepted Answer

We recommend keeping a distance of 3-foot from woodburning fireplaces and stoves to avoid dimension changes. Regarding a gas fireplace, if the bottom of the fireplace opening is approximately 6”-7” above the finished floor, there should be no issue with&hellip;

SPC

LVP

WPC

Laminate

Loose Lay

SPC

LVP

WPC

Laminate

Loose Lay

GOWDY FLOORING

Flooring

Company

Resources

Dealer

Sign up for the latest news, flooring trends, special offers, new product releases and more!