DryBarrier® FAQ
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Can I install glue down flooring on top of DryBarrier®
subfloor?
It is not recommended to use any glue down flooring directly on top of DryBarrier®. Any floating flooring system can be installed directly on top. Refer to our installation instructions and video for further details on various floor types.
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Do I need to acclimatize DryBarrier® before installation?
Yes, it is important to acclimatize DryBarrier® in the area of installation for a minimum of 24 hours.
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Why is DryBarrier® recommended instead of dimpled underlayments?
DryBarrier® provides a durable flat top surface for proper flooring support; no compression, movement, or transfer of minor floor irregularities. Unlike a dimpled underlayment which is thin and flexible ans will transfer minor floor irregularities to the dimpled surface.
DryBarrier’s flat, sealed top surface is designed to prevent water from collecting. In contrast, dimpled underlayments contain surface pockets that will trap water beneath finished flooring if a leak or spill occurs.
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Can I install finished flooring directly on top of DryBarrier® without any underlayment?
The durable flat top surface of DryBarrier® is suitable to place carpet, laminate, floating engineered hardwood, and engineered vinyl planks directly on top however it is important to follow the installation requirements as outlined by the flooring Instructions for further detail.
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Do I need to place OSB or Plywood on top of
DryBarrier®?
The main advantage of DryBarrier® is that it does not contain and organic materials such as OSB or plywood that supports mold growth. Finished flooring may be installed directly on top of DryBarrier® without the need of OSB or plywood however it is important to follow installation requirements as outlined by the flooring manufacturer.
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Why is DryBarrier® the healthy subfloor choice?
DryBarrier® subfloor is composed of an engineered thermoplastic elastomer material which has been tested through accredited laboratories to be fungi/mold growth resistant, water resistant, free of volatile organic compounds, and promotes good air quality through the air flow channels allowing the concrete to breathe and not trap moisture.
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How do I improve the air movement below DryBarrier®
Subfloor?
Always maintain a minimum of 1/4” around the room perimeter for airflow circulation, expansion, and contraction. For concrete slabs that release excess moisture cut an opening 3” x 10” every 8’ to 10’ along the room perimeter to obtain optimal airflow. The cut-outs can then be finished with the floor grills.
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Can I install an in-floor heating system with
DryBarrier®?
DryBarrier® subfloor is not recommended with in-floor heating systems.
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Can I cover floor drains with DryBarrier®?
If you choose to cover a floor drain with a finished floor then a small square access panel is required. Cut out a square from the DryBarrier® subfloor tile over the drain (approximately 6" x 6" for a typical 4" round drain) and then tack the finished floor to the top of the DryBarrier® square cut out. The access panel would seat on top of the drain and can be lifted for access when required.
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Can DryBarrier® support the weight of heavy objects?
The profile structure of DryBarrier® subfloor has been designed to support over 11,500 lbs per square foot therefore with no concern you can place heavy objects on a DryBarrier® subfloor such as a pool table and gym equipment.
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Does DryBarrier® contain any volatile organic compounds
(VOC’s)?
No, DryBarrier® does not contain any VOC’s. It is a safe product.
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Does DryBarrier® have an odor?
DryBarrier® tiles may have a slight plastic odour when opening the box. However this odour will dissipate completely within a few days.
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What do I need to do in the event of a flood?
DryBarrier® is water resistant however in the event a flood it is recommended to remove the DryBarrier® tiles immediately, rinse off the tiles if necessary, and stack the tiles flat for drying. Prior to reinstalling, acclimatize DryBarrier® in the area of installation for a minimum of 24 hours.
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Can partition walls be installed on top of the DryBarrier® subfloor?
The DryBarrier® subfloor can withstand the weight of non load barring perimeter or interior wall, however it is not recommended as the tiles are a floating system. It is recommended that any such walls be installed first, with the DryBarrier® subfloor installed around it as per normal procedure.