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Support Center

Everything you need to install, maintain, and get the most out of your Benchwick flooring.

Installation Guide

Step-by-Step Installation

Follow these guides for a professional floating floor installation. Always read the product-specific instructions included in your box.

Rigid Core Vinyl Flooring

For RIGID CORE 402, 605, 610, 810, and Planet Tile collections.

1

Acclimate

Store planks in the installation room for 48 hours at 65-85°F. Keep boxes flat and unopened.

2

Prepare Subfloor

Ensure subfloor is clean, dry, flat (3/16" over 10ft), and structurally sound. Rigid core flooring can be installed over most existing hard floors.

3

Underlay

If planks do not have pre-attached IXPE backing, lay a suitable underlayment. Do not double up underlayment on pre-attached products.

4

Layout

Start from the longest, most visible wall. Maintain 1/4" expansion gap around all walls and fixed objects.

5

Install

Angle the long side tongue into the groove of the previous row at ~20°, then press down to lock. Tap end joints with a tapping block.

6

Finish

Install transition strips, baseboards, and quarter round to cover expansion gaps. Do not pin flooring with moldings.

Hybrid Wood Flooring

For SUPEROAK Lite, Select, Elite, Plus, and Max collections.

1

Acclimate

Store planks in the installation room for 48-72 hours at 60-80°F and 35-65% relative humidity.

2

Prepare Subfloor

Subfloor must be clean, dry (moisture ≤3% for concrete), and flat within 3/16" over 10ft. Repair any cracks or uneven areas.

3

Moisture Barrier

Over concrete subfloors, install a 6-mil polyethylene vapor barrier with seams overlapped 8" and taped.

4

Layout

Dry-fit the first two rows to plan the layout. Stagger end joints by at least 12". Maintain 3/8" expansion gaps at all walls.

5

Install

Use the angle-lock system: insert the long side at an angle, then fold down. Use a pull bar for end joints near walls.

6

Finish

Install T-moldings at doorways, reducers at transitions, and baseboards to conceal expansion gaps. Allow 24 hours before heavy furniture.

Warranty

Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage, duration, eligibility, and exclusions vary by product line, model, installation, and application. Use the warranty linked for the exact product.

Residential

Coverage scopeVaries by model
Coverage durationSee product warranty
Eligibility & exclusionsProduct-specific

Light Commercial

Coverage scopeVaries by model
Coverage durationSee product warranty
Eligibility & exclusionsProduct-specific

This is a navigation summary, not a warranty promise. The current product-specific warranty document controls.

Maintenance

Care & Maintenance

Keep your Benchwick floors looking beautiful for years with these simple care guidelines.

Daily Care

  • Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris
  • Use a damp (not wet) mop with a pH-neutral cleaner
  • Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining
  • Place doormats at entries to reduce tracked-in grit

Protection

  • Use felt pads under all furniture legs
  • Use protective mats under rolling office chairs
  • Trim pet nails regularly to prevent scratches
  • Avoid dragging heavy furniture or appliances

Avoid

  • Steam-mop eligibility is collection-specific; follow the care and warranty document for the exact model
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring pads
  • Do not use wax, polish, or oil-based cleaners
  • Avoid prolonged direct sunlight — use blinds or curtains
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Rigid Core

RIGID CORE 402 / 605 / 610 / 810

Can I install Rigid Core flooring over existing tile or vinyl?

Yes. Rigid Core flooring can be installed over most existing hard, flat surfaces including tile, vinyl, and hardwood. The subfloor must be flat within 3/16" over 10ft. Carpet must be removed.

Is underlayment required for Rigid Core products?

Most Benchwick Rigid Core products (RIGID CORE 605, 610, 810) come with pre-attached IXPE backing, so no additional underlayment is needed. For RIGID CORE 402 products without attached backing, we recommend a standard underlayment (1-1.5mm).

What is the difference between RIGID CORE 402, 605, 610, and 810?

RIGID CORE 402 is our entry-level at 5mm with 12-mil wear layer (7.17" x 48"). RIGID CORE 605 is 6mm with 22-mil wear layer (7.17" x 48"). RIGID CORE 610 is 6.5mm with 22-mil wear layer and Klein Blue IXPE backing (9" x 60"). RIGID CORE 810 is our premium at 8mm with 30-mil wear layer and Klein Blue IXPE (9" x 62.6").

Can Rigid Core flooring be installed in bathrooms and basements?

Approved wet-area use varies by collection and model. Check the exact product specification and installation guide for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements; outdoor use is not implied.

What is the temperature range for Rigid Core installation?

Install and maintain room temperature between 55-95°F (13-35°C). Rigid Core is dimensionally stable but extreme temperature swings should be avoided. Do not install in unconditioned spaces.

Can I use radiant/underfloor heating with Rigid Core flooring?

Radiant-heat compatibility and temperature limits are model-specific. Use only the method and limits stated in the installation guide for the exact product.

What are Perfect Match Trims?

Perfect Match Trims are color-coordinated transition pieces (T-moldings, reducers, stair treads, quarter rounds) designed to match each Rigid Core collection exactly. Available for RIGID CORE 402, 605, 610, and 810.

SUPEROAK

Lite / Select / Elite / Plus / Max

What makes SUPEROAK different from regular vinyl or laminate flooring?

SUPEROAK is a hybrid wood flooring family that combines wood visuals with Benchwick digital-printing technology. Construction, AC rating, approved use areas, and pattern count vary by collection and model.

What is the difference between SUPEROAK Lite, Select, Elite, Plus, and Max?

SUPEROAK Lite is 9.5mm (7.7" x 48") — our accessible entry to hybrid wood. SUPEROAK Select is 12mm (7.5" x 48") with 0.6mm true veneer. SUPEROAK Elite is 12mm in a wider plank (9" x 60"). SUPEROAK Plus is 12mm in wide, long format (9.8" x 72.7"). SUPEROAK Max is our premium flagship at 14mm (12" x 96").

Does SUPEROAK require a moisture barrier?

Over concrete subfloors, install a 6-mil polyethylene vapor barrier with seams overlapped 8" and taped. Over wood subfloors or existing hard flooring, a moisture barrier is typically not required but recommended in high-humidity areas.

How long should I acclimate SUPEROAK before installation?

Store unopened boxes flat in the installation room for 48-72 hours at 60-80°F and 35-65% relative humidity. This is slightly longer than Rigid Core products due to the real wood veneer component.

Is SUPEROAK scratch resistant?

Surface technology and durability ratings vary by SUPEROAK collection. Refer to the specification or test report for the exact model rather than applying one AC rating across the full range.

Can SUPEROAK be installed in kitchens and bathrooms?

Kitchen, bathroom, and basement eligibility is collection-specific. Follow the installation, moisture-control, and warranty requirements for the exact SUPEROAK model.

Is SUPEROAK environmentally friendly?

Material and environmental claims apply only to the models identified in the relevant specification, test report, or certificate. Contact Benchwick for the current evidence package for a specific SUPEROAK model.

General

Warranty & Support

How do I file a warranty claim?

Contact our team via the contact form or email sales@benchwick.com with your order information, photos of the issue, and a description of the problem. We typically respond within 1 business day.

What does the warranty NOT cover?

The warranty does not cover damage from improper installation, misuse, negligence, flooding, or commercial use of residential-rated products. Normal wear in appearance (minor scratches, color variation) is also excluded.

Can I use radiant/underfloor heating?

Yes. Both Benchwick Rigid Core and SUPEROAK hybrid flooring are compatible with hydronic and electric radiant heating systems. Surface temperature must not exceed 85°F (29°C). Allow the heating system to run for 2 weeks before installation.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is ready to help with technical support, warranty claims, or any other questions.