Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about DMX 1-STEP 2.0

Product Overview

What is DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

DMX 1-Step 2.0™ is an advanced vapor barrier underlayment that separates your finished flooring from cold, damp concrete, protecting it from moisture-related damage.

How does the dimple design work?

What flooring types can I use with DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

How is it different from traditional underlayments?

Is it waterproof or water-resistant?

Can it be used in basements or below-grade areas?

Does it emit odors or VOCs?

Does it have any certifications or testing standards?

How thick is DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

What is the material composition?

Surface Preparation & Installation

Do I need plywood or OSB with DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

Do I need a subfloor under DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

What tools do I need?

Should I leave an expansion gap at the perimeter?

How do I join two pieces together? Should they overlap?

What if I run out of DMX Joining Tape?

Which side faces up?

Can it go over concrete with cracks?

How do I cut and fit around posts or corners?

Is it compatible with radiant floor heating?

How soon can flooring be installed after laying DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

What are the DMX Easy Shims™?

Should I build the walls first, or install DMX 1-Step 2.0™ first?

For non-load-bearing walls, either order is acceptable and left to the installer’s preference.
If you choose to install DMX 1-Step 2.0 first and build the walls on top of it:
● When fastening the bottom plate through the membrane into concrete (basement or slab-on-grade), use Tapcon screws dipped in polyurethane sealant. This prevents
moisture from wicking up through the concrete and into the bottom plate.
● If the installation is in an area where moisture is not a threat (main floor, upper floor, or high-rise concrete), follow the same fastening steps without the polyurethane sealant.

How do I fasten OSB to the floor if it sits on top of DMX 1-Step 2.0™?

When installing OSB over 1-Step 2.0 and anchoring it to a concrete subfloor:
● Use the appropriate-length Tapcon screws, and
● Coat each screw with polyurethane sealant before fastening to prevent moisture transfer.

Fastener pattern: follow the “5” on a dice — one screw in each corner and one centered in the sheet.
For installations over a wood subfloor or high-rise concrete where moisture is not a concern, use the same fastener pattern but skip the sealant.

Performance & Benefits

How much warmer will my floors be?

Will it prevent mold growth?

How does it compare to competitors?

What’s the R-Value?

What is the maximum PSI rating?

Warranty & Support

What does the 25-year warranty cover?

Is DMX 1-STEP 2.0™ NALFA certified?

Where can I buy DMX 1-STEP 2.0™?

How do I contact customer support?

Still Have Questions?

Our team is here to help with any questions about DMX 1-STEP 2.0