Installation Guide
2. Laying direction of strip ooring: ooring should be laid at right angles to the
oor joists and, if possible, in the direction of the longest dimension of the room.
3. Starting to lay strip ooring: begin laying strip ooring in a room corner with the
long groove of the strips facing the wall. Provide not less than 3/4” expansion space
or what will be covered by the baseboard and trim specified for the job.
4. End joints of strip: these should be staggered to achieve the best appearance in
the finished oor (Min. 6 inches).
5. Nailing schedule for solid ooring: the first and last run of strips should be faced
nailed then counter sunk 6” apart. Continue to blind nail each succeeding row until
the nailer/stapler can be used to install the ooring. All other runs to be nailed at an
angle of 45° to 50° on 6” to 8” centers at the tongue, also nail within 2” of each end
joint. (Minimum of 2 fasteners per plank)
6. For pre-finished be sure to check nail gun faceplate to ensure it will not damage
surface finish.
7. To avoid movement in wood oors, the relative humidity should be maintained
year round at 35-55% RH, TEMP 60ºF to 80ºF year round.
TOOLS NEEDED
• Pneumatic/Manual Nailer/Stapler
• Chalk Line & Chalk
• Electric Mitre Saw
• Pry Bar
• Broom or Vaccum
• Safety Glasses
• Wood Putty/Filler
• Hammer
• Tape Measure
• Approved Floor Cleaner
FLOOR CARE AND PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
With today’s finishes, maintenance of your wood oor could not be easier. Normal
maintenance consists of regular sweeping or vacuuming to collect dirt and grit that
can dull your finish, along with periodic use of an approved no-wax hardwood oor
cleaner. For Handscraped/Distressed oors, the uneven surface may trap dirt and
dust so we recommend vacuuming more often. Always vacuum thoroughly prior to
the use of approved oor cleaner. Be certain the wheels of the vacuum are clean and
do not damage the finish. Scrubbing machinery, power scrubbers and steam cleaners
are not recommended to clean the oor.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Aside from those mentioned above, other steps can also be taken to minimize wear
and tear and keep your oor looking new for years to come.
• DO NOT USE liquid or paste wax, oil soaps, or any other cleaners that contain
silicon, lemon oil, tung oil, acrylics or ammonia. Furthermore, avoid ‘home recipes’
found on the internet or other sources. These products and techniques can cause
your oors to become slippery, or cloud and dull the finish. Use of these and similar
products can harm the performance of your oor and may also affect its re-coat
ability.
• DO NOT USE A VACUUM WITH A BEATER BAR HEAD
• Use throw rugs inside and outside of entryways to prevent dirt and grit from
being tracked in and scratching your finish. Rugs, mats or backings should not be
abrasive to prevent scratching to the wood oor. Material should be breathable to
avoid trapping moisture underneath.
• Wood and water don’t mix! Never damp mop your oor. Clean up spills promptly
with a soft cloth and recommended cleaning products.
• Place felt-type protectors on the bottom of all furniture and fixture legs to assist
in preventing denting and scratching.
• High heels and sports cleats will likely dent, gouge or scratch hardwood oors,
which is not covered by our warranty.
• Keep pet’s nails trimmed and clean of dirt and debris.
• Avoid sliding or rolling heavy furniture or appliances across the oor. Whenever
possible, lift the item to be moved. If it must be rolled, protect the oor with plywood
or other hard sheeting to prevent dents.
• Use a humidifier/dehumidifier to maintain a consistent year round climate,
keeping wood shrinkage and movement to a minimum.
• The exposure of sun, UV rays and artificial lighting accelerate the oxidation and
aging of wood. This can cause the wood and/or stain to change color and/or fade
over time. If possible, we recommend that you rearrange fixtures, rugs and furniture
periodically to ensure the ooring ages evenly. Our warranties do not cover damage
from the sun, UV rays or artificial light. Note: American Cherry and Walnut species
are especially susceptible to the effect of light and may darken or lighten due to
UV or artificial light exposure. These species change color more rapidly than other
Domestic Species.
• Furniture casters should have wheels constructed with soft, non-marring/marking
material such as soft rubber, or covered with felt. Hard wheeled casters such as
plastic, vinyl or hard rubber can mark or dent hardwood oors. Caster wheel width
and diameter should comply with load guidelines.