Installation Instructions

Our flooring is not warrantied against squeaking, popping or crackling when using staple-down or nail-down installation

methods. Some squeaking, popping or crackling is normal and possible when using staple-down or nail-down

installation methods. These symptoms may be aggravated in drier areas or during dry conditions. It is the responsibility

of the installer to prepare the subfloor and ensure that it is clean, dry, sound, and flat. It is the responsibility of the

installer to ensure a clean, sound, and quiet flooring installation. Flooring should be continually inspected throughout

the process.

Use of Pneumatic Staplers and Nailers

Minor occasional noises within the flooring are inherent to all staple/nail-down installations and can change as

environmental changes occur. This is not a manufacturing defect and is therefore not covered under our warranties

(see warranty brochure for complete warranty coverage). You can help reduce squeaking, popping, and crackling by

being sure that the subfloor is structurally sound, does not have any loose decking or joists, and is swept clean prior

to installation. You should also be sure that your stapler or nailer is setting the fastener properly, not damaging the

planks, and that you are using the correct nailing schedule. When used improperly, staples or cleats can damage

wood flooring. If the tool is not adjusted properly the staples/cleats may not be positioned at the proper angle and

cause blistering, peaking, squeaking, or crackling of the floor. Some models may require the use of an adapter to

adjust for proper thickness.

Test the tool on a piece of scrap material first: Set the stapler/nailer flush on the tongue side of the plank and install a

staple/cleat. Should the staple/cleat penetrate too deeply reduce the air pressure. If the staple/cleat is not deep enough

then increase the air pressure using an in-line regulator. The crown of the staple/cleat should sit flush within the nail

pocket to prevent damage to the flooring and to reduce squeaking. BRW Floors is not responsible for damage caused by

mechanical fasteners.

Recommended Fastener Lengths and Specifications

For 3/8” thick Engineered products: minimum length is 1¼” to 1 ½” 18-gauge staple OR 1 ¼” 18-gauge cleat nail

For 1/2” thick EGD/Solid products: minimum length is 1 ¼” to 1 ½” 18-gauge staple OR 1 ¼” 18-gauge cleat nail

For 5/8” thick EGD/Solid products: recommended length is 1-½” 18-gauge staple OR 1 ¾” 18-gauge cleat nail

For 3/4” thick Solid products: recommended length is 1 ¾” 18-gauge cleat nail

Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for complete set-up and operation of equipment.