Installation Guide

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September 6, 2018
NAIL DOWN/STAPLE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Step One - Establish a Starting Point
1. Remove any existing wall base, shoe molding, quarter round or doorway threshold.
2. Determine the direction of the floor joists – Run the flooring perpendicular (90°) to the floor joists. Do not run flooring
parallel to floor joists per NWFA Guidelines.
3. Prior to installing flooring, roll out 15 lb. felt or asphalt impregnated paper in the same direction of the flooring. Overlap each
row by 3” to 4”. This process will help to keep the floor clean and help to retard moisture from below.
4. Establish a starting point. We recommend the longest exterior running wall.
5. Measure the total width of the flooring (including the tongue), plus ½” for expansion. Measure out this distance in at least 2
places from the starting wall and 12” from the corners. Then, snap a chalk line parallel to the starting wall.
Step Two - Lay Out
1. Choose the longest and straightest boards and align the plank’s tongue with the working line. Cut the last plank to the proper
length leaving a ½” from the end wall.
2. Top nail the boards into place approximately 6” apart and 1” from the back edge (groove side) using a pneumatic nailer;
Always use a nail set to sink the nail heads below the surface of the flooring. Remember to fill the holes with matching wood
putty/filler.
3. Continue to blind nail by hand each succeeding row until the nailer/stapler can be used to install the flooring. It is critical to
make sure the starting row is properly aligned and straight.
4. If necessary, we recommend pre-drilling pilot holes spaced 6” to 8” apart at a 45° angle along the tongue and blind nail the
plank. Be sure to countersink the nails with a nail set.
Step Three – Rack the Floor
1. Once the first four rows are in place, continue to lay out the planks. Remain working from at least four open cartons. Be sure to
blend the planks and stagger the end joints a minimum of 6” apart to ensure a favorable appearance. Avoid H-Joint and other
repeating patterns in the floor.
Step Four - Installation of Flooring
1. Once the initial row is in place, begin installing the planks using either a manual or pneumatic nailer/stapler using 16-gauge
cleats staples. Check to ensure the fastener is set to the proper depth and angle by adjusting the nailer/stapler shoes. Blind nail
through the tongue using a minimum 1 ½”- 2” staple or cleat; fasten the planks approximately 2” to 3” from the ends and every 8”
apart with a minimum of 2 fasteners per plank.
2. Continue installing planks across the room and ending at the far wall using the manual or pneumatic nailer/ stapler and
following the recommended nailing schedule. Remember, never waste materials; the end cuts from starter rows should be used
at the opposite side of the room to complete rows or to start the next row. As you reach the far wall it may be necessary to
blind nail by hand until top nailing is required.
3. It may be necessary to rip the last row to allow for the 1/2” expansion. If the last row is 1” or less glue the pieces to the last
full uninstalled row and install them together. If needed, use a pry bar or lever to fit the remaining rows tight to the installed
planks.
4. Top nail the last 1-2 rows into place approximately 6” apart and 1” from the back edge (groove side) using a pneumatic finish
nailer. Always use a nail set to sink the nail heads below the surface of the flooring. Remember to fill the holes with matching
wood putty/filler.
Step Five - Completing the Job
1. Clean the floor with pre-finished hardwood cleaners such as Bona®.
2. Install transition pieces -i.e. – stair nose, reducer, end cap, t-molding and base shoe. Please follow manufacturer’s installation
guidelines for transitions.
3. Inspect final floor for nicks and/or minor gaps – fill with appropriate color wood putty.
4. Complete Warranty Registration Form
5. Any unused material should be stored in a dry place in case future repairs are needed. We recommend saving at least 2
boxes.