Installation Guide

or humid regions usually require extended conditioning. Recommended acclimation levels maintained even after the
installation will minimize board movement, excessive squeaks and gaps. Proper jobsite conditions such acclimation,
moisture testing of the subfloor, the room and the new flooring are important components for a successful
installation. Detailed records need to be kept of the various environmental conditions and MC levels for reference if
required at a later date. This is the responsibility of those overseeing the project.
Long Length boards- Remember as you build the floor on the protective release strip, you will have the
choice to change or move boards so that the fit is to your liking. Elastilon can be used with long length (8 feet/
2.44m) as well as short length (12 inch/.30m) boards. Be sure to follow the manufacturers’ recommendations
in terms of mixing floor boards to optimize the look and strength of the floor. Once you are satisfied with the
presentation of the floor remove the protective release strip and move on to the next section.
Wood that isn’t perfect - It is also important to visually inspect each piece of wood flooring before being
installed. As with any other type of installation method, Elastilon cannot compensate for flooring that is
severely bowed warped, cupped, milled incorrectly or damaged prior to an installation. However, most
boards may be used if the defective section is cut and removed with the remainder of the board used as a
start or end piece, used in a closet, in a low traffic or used in a concealed portion of the room. Please note
that the use of mechanical fastening systems such as straps should never be used to hold boards together.
Pressure from a rubber mallet and the use of blue painters tape to keep boards tight is permissible. During
the racking (building) of the floor on top of the Elastilon protective release strip, flooring that is not severely
bowed can be installed as long as it can still be inserted into the T&G of the boards surrounding it. This will
pull the board straight and allow full contact on the Elastilon membrane. Be sure to place a small amount of
carpenters glue on all four sides of the affected board for a concern free installation.
Floor noise – Deflection may cause a minimal amount of friction or "floor noise". Note that normal floor
noise will vary from one installation type to the next depending on sub-floor type, sub-floor deflection,
species, milling and type of flooring material, relative humidity and the amount of topside pressure applied to
the flooring material. For these reasons, "Floor Noise" is not considered a defect
Working with thinner boards – Although these instructions are common to the installation of Elastilon with
all hardwood floors, particular attention must be given to the following when installing thinner boards. ie,
½”(12.5mm), 3/8”(10mm) and 5/16”(8mm)
• All end joints must be glued throughout the installation.
• The floor must be flat to within .08 inch over 8 ft (2mm over 2.5m)
• Expansion room must be maintained around all walls and obstacles.
• Transition moldings need to be placed at all doorways and hall entrances and areas greater than 30ft
in width or length.
• Each board should be carefully inspected prior to the installation. Boards should be straight and flat
without bowing, warping or cupping prior to the installation.
Any questions, please contact your local dealer or Elastilon at 1-877-526-9663 /www.elastilonusa.com
Replaces: October 6th, 2011 Revised: Nov 10th, 2011