Installation Instructions

moisture (plumbing, ceramic tiles, drywall finishes, painting, etc.) should be finished with ample time allowed for complete
drying prior to wood floor installation. Gutters should be in place and function properly to direct water away from the
foundation. For best performance, wood flooring should be one of the last items installed. (HVAC) Heating, Ventilation and
or Air conditioning systems should be fully operating and running with temperature between 60F and 80F with humidity
between 30% and 50%, before, during and maintained after installation.
NOTE: Some regions of the country are moderate in both temperatures and humidity. Homes in these regions may not
have typical (HVAC) Heating, Ventilation and Air-conditioning systems to regulate the indoor environment. Therefore, in
this and in all cases, it is the flooring professional or homeowner’s responsibility to determine the indoor environment or
moisture content of the wood flooring is suitable for installation and its on-going maintenance.
VENTILATED CRAWL SPACES
Per (IRC) International Residential Code, Section R408.1
Inspect the under-floor crawl space. It must have vents for proper cross-ventilation (pic1). Venting allows damp areas to
dry-out, reducing the likelihood of mold growth, and to minimize moisture pressure or build-up under homes. Provide year-
round air circulation with multiple vents, a minimum of 1 square foot for each 150 square feet of under-floor space area.
One ventilating opening shall be within 3 feet of each corner. Ventilation fans can be used in the crawl space area to
circulate the air, promote drying and reduce dead air spaces. (Exception R408.2; "Where warranted by climatic conditions,
ventilation openings to the outdoors are not required if, ventilation/conditioned openings to the homes interior are
provided.") Ground Cover: under the home in the crawlspace completely cover 100% of the soil to guard against ground
moisture. Use black 6-mil virgin polyethylene sheet plastic as a moisture vapor barrier. When connecting, overlap any
seams 6” and tape seams completely.
(pic1)
ACCLIMATION/CONDITIONING OF THE FLOORING
After harvesting, wood flooring is kiln-dried for optimum service. During transit, delivery and storage, wood flooring must
be protected from moisture. Wood is hygroscopic, meaning its size and shape changes with the absorption or release of
moisture. The amount of change varies with wood species, cut, and type of flooring. Therefore, wood movement (shrinkage
or expansion) is to be properly controlled and achieved at the worksite. First, acclimate the new flooring while in the boxes
in the areas to be installed to the expected environment that the floor will service. If products are packaged in plastic,
remove the plastic wrapping from the outside of the boxes to speed up the acclimation process. The length of acclimation
time is not the determining factor. The goal is to reach a moisture balance between the new flooring and its normal indoor
surroundings before assembly, fastening or installation (SEE MOISTURE TESTING.) Extended conditioning is not unusual
for exotic species having natural oils or for very dense species like Brazilian Teak, Brazilian Cherry, and Mahogany,
Rosewood, Redwood, Brazilian Walnut and others. For best performance, condition and maintain the flooring to consistent
indoor temperatures of 60°-80° F and indoor humidity levels of 30% - 50%, before, during and after installation. Depending
on your local conditions the use of a dehumidifier or a humidifier may be necessary to maintain the desired results. Very
dry or humid regions of the country usually require extended conditioning to balance the wood to the environment it will
service. Proper jobsite conditions, acclimation, moisture testing of the subfloor and new flooring all work together for the
success of the installation and is the responsibility of those overseeing the project. Not following the above
recommendations can negatively impact board performance and can result in excessive movement, squeaks, board