02/2016

Installing MMF flooring correctly

MMFA releases new technical bulletin

The MMFA – the Multilayer Modular Flooring Association, based in Bielefeld – has published its first technical bulletin on the subject “Installation of multilayer modular floor coverings (MMF)”. As with all specialist information issued by the Association, this document is available in both German and English language versions and can be downloaded free of charge from the Downloads section at www.mmfa.eu.

By making these comprehensive technical bulletins readily accessible, the MMFA strives to achieve the highest level of knowledge and quality in this sector. Following on from the first bulletin issued by the Association in 2014 entitled “Underlay Materials”, this new technical document deals exclusively with how to lay a modular, multilayer floor (MMF) as a floating installation.

Preparing the subfloor correctly is essential

The technical bulletin “TB 2 – Installation of Multilayer Modular Floor Coverings (MMF)” provides an overview of the various MMF product structures and also illustrates the correct way to prepare different types of subfloors. The values for relative humidity mentioned in the English version of the technical bulletin apply to the areas that follow US and Canadian requirements and they may be different in other regions.

Other sections of the bulletin address issues such as inspection and storage of MMF products prior to installation, a list of the tools generally required, an explanation of conventional laying directions and a recommendation for using a suitable underlay to improve the performance of the entire flooring system. Because MMF should in principle be installed as a floating floor, the document also gives detailed advice on connecting to adjoining components and includes instructions on fitting expansion joints correctly and using suitable transition strips. The special aspects of installing MMF over modern underfloor heating/cooling systems are also outlined.

For wet rooms or rooms with high humidity or high temperatures, the rules are clear: floating MMF floor installations are not generally suitable for wet rooms with a drain system e.g. showers or pool areas. This also applies to saunas, as the upper temperatures reached are too high. However, manufacturers can supply MMF products specifically designed and approved for rooms with high humidity e.g. bathrooms and kitchens. These are the only products suitable for installation in such areas, where dampness and moisture must be prevented from penetrating the joints in the flooring construction.

Important note

Due to its material composition and product structure, MMF flooring is susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity, both of which cause it to expand and contract. It is therefore essential to take into account the specifications and recommendations provided by the flooring manufacturer.

And a final tip: To be on the safe side when laying your MMF flooring planks, we advise following the instructions and recommendations outlined in this technical bulletin.

Images – Captions

mfne1603_b1: The MMFA’s new technical bulletin gives practical tips on the correct way to install floating modular multilayer flooring (MMF). – Graphic: MMFA
mfne1603_b2: Matching skirting and strips (shown here with a sealing lip) prevent moisture and dampness penetrating the expansion joints of the floor construction. – Photo: FN Neuhofer Holz GmbH