Contractor Resources
Installation Requirements and Best Practices
Plycem High Performance Subfloor panels are designed for installation over wood or steel framing systems. Proper substrate preparation is critical for optimal performance.
Substrate & Framing Requirements
Plycem High Performance Subfloor is a fiber-reinforced structural cement board. It maintains a typical density of 1.10 kg/dm³ and a flexural strength of 6.5 N/mm².

Physical Properties
- • Flexural Elastic Modulus: 3.5 kN/mm²
- • Moisture Movement: 0%
- • Flame Spread / Smoke Dev: 0 (ASTM E-84)
Certifications
Complies with ISO 8336:2018 (Category A) and ASTM C1186-08 (Type A, Grade I).
Wood Framing Specifications
Maximum spacing for residential subfloor is 61cm (24") on center. All wood members must be kiln-dried with moisture content ≤19%.
Cold-Formed Steel Framing
For exterior walls and kitchens requiring moisture barriers, use 20 gauge steel structure with 40.6cm (16") spacing.
Panel Dimensions & Fastening
| Thickness | Weight (lbs) | Panels/Pallet | Product Codes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20mm (13/16") | 149.6 | 50 | 960140 / 972254 |
| 22mm (7/8") | 164.7 | 45 | 960151 / 971677 |
| 25mm (1") | 187.1 | 40 | 960159 / 971829 |
| 30mm (1-3/16") | 224.5 | 35 | 960162 |
Tongue & Groove System
Structural T&G edges ensure load distribution. For residential subflooring, apply a thin coat of Supreme acrylic adhesive to the sheets before finishing with geotextile membrane.
Tools & Safety
Cutting Equipment
- Carbide-tipped PCD blades
- Dust extraction with HEPA filter
PPE Required
Harness, lifeline, and planks are mandatory for Roof Sheating applications.
Floor Finishes
Once dry, install ceramic or porcelain tile using cementitious or acrylic mortar as per manufacturer specs.
Technical Video Resource Center
Featured: High Performance Subfloor (3:36)
3:14PLYCEM® RESIDENTIAL SUBFLOOR
Exclusive subfloor for low traffic residential use on level wood or metal structures.
Watch on YouTube
2:42PLYCEM® ROOF SHEATING
Installation of 14mm-17mm boards for structural roof decking with staggered edges.
Watch on YouTube
2:14PLYCEM® DECK
Clip-based exterior structural deck system with 40.6cm maximum spacing.
Watch on YouTube
2:33PLYCEM® EXTERIOR HIDDEN JOINT
Sealing for high-performance exterior walls using 20 gauge structural support.
Watch on YouTube
1:57PLYCEM® INTERIOR EXPOSED JOINT
Architectural modulation for interior finishes with a minimum 3mm gap.
Watch on YouTube