Installation Guide

AFTER INSTALLATION & SEASONAL OPERATION
 48 hours after completion of installation, slowly raise temperature of
the heating system to its preferred operating level over a period of 5
days. Do not allow the surface temperature to exceed 80°
 Humidity level must be maintained between 35%-55% R.H.
 Seasonal gapping should be expected.
 Surface checking can be expected if the proper humidity level is not
properly maintained between 35-55% R. H. or if the floor’s surface
temperature exceeds 80°.
COMPLETING THE JOB – ALL INSTALLATIONS
 Sweep or vacuum floor
 Clean the floor with proper hardwood floor cleaner
 Install transition pieces -i.e. – thresholds, t-moldings, base boards and
quarter round. Nail moldings to wall, not the floor.
 Inspect final floor for nicks and or minor gaps – fill with appropriate
color wood putty.
 Unused material should be left with owner and stored in a dry place in
case of future repairs are needed.
 Use plywood or hardboard when moving heavy appliances or furniture
across floor.
Final Inspection: After the floor has been cleaned, inspect the floor for nicks,
scratches, gaps or planks that may have moved during installation, as well as
any other imperfections that need attention. Touch up nicks and scratches with
touch-up products. In typical climates, the new floor can accept foot traffic
within 24 hours. In areas where additional curing time is required, more time
may be needed.
Floor Protection During Construction
After installation, if you choose to protectively cover the floor, cover the floor
completely, since some species are light-sensitive and uncovered areas may
change color. Use a covering material with a vapor permeance (perm rating) of
1 perm or more (tested I accordance with ASTM E-96) to avoid trapping
moisture/vapor on or within the floor. Any covering should be taped, using a
low-adhesion tape, to base or shoe moldings. Avoid taping to finished flooring.
When taping paper or sheets together, tape them to each other, not to the floor.
Floor Care and Maintenance
Remember, like any floor covering, our factory finished wood floors will show
signs of wear over time, depending on the size and lifestyle of your family. By
observing a few precautions and setting up a regular cleaning routine and
maintenance program, you can expect years of beauty from your floor. The
following are examples of the reasonable and necessary maintenance you are
expected to perform. They are not intended to be an exclusive list.
1. Sweep or vacuum regularly since built-up grit can damage the surface of
the wood. The vacuum head must be a brush or felt type. Be certain the
wheels of the vacuum are clean and do not damage the finish. Do not use
a vacuum with a beater bar head.
2. Remove spills promptly using a soft cloth and cleaning products
recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Never wet-mop, damp-mop, or clean your floor with water or other
products. This can severely damage the flooring and will void the
warranties. Do not use hardwood floor cleaning machines or steam
cleaners. See section on Improper Maintenance.
4. Use the manufacturer’s recommended Hardwood floor cleaners with a
clean terry cloth mop. Always sweep or vacuum the floors prior to using
wood floor cleaners. Do not allow excess cleaner to remain on the floors
surface as this may permanently damage the wood fiber.
5. Important: Do not use oil soaps, liquid or paste wax products or other
household cleaners that contain citrus oils, lemon oil, tung oil, silicon, or
ammonia since these warranties do not cover damage caused by non-
recommended products. Use of these and other such products will harm
the long-term performance of your floor and may also affect its recoat
ability.
6. Do not use 2 in 1 cleaners with polish that may contain acrylics or
urethane polish to restore gloss – the use of these products will void the
finish warranty and may produce unsatisfactory results when not applied
properly.
7. Keep pets’ nails trimmed, and paws clean and free of dirt, gravel, grease,
oil, and stains.
8. Place protective felt pads beneath furniture legs and feet to reduce
scratches and dents. Replace pads as needed.
9. Use a dolly and protective sheets of plywood when moving heavy objects,
furniture, or appliances.
10. Make certain furniture casters are clean and operate properly (a minimum
1” wide vinyl surface where it comes in contact with wood is
recommended). Clean wheels periodically to remove dirt and debris.
11. Remove shoes with spiked or damaged heels before walking on floor.
12. Exposure to the sun and its UV rays accelerates the oxidation and aging
of wood. This can cause the stain and/or wood to fade and/or to change
color. We recommend that you rearrange rugs and furniture periodically
so the floor ages evenly. Exotic species such as Brazilian Cherry are more
susceptible to color change during the aging process. These warranties do
not cover damage from the sun and its UV rays.
13. Use area rugs in high traffic areas and pivot points (e.g., stair landings,
room entries, etc.), especially if you have a large family or indoor pets.
14. Maintain the proper Relative Humidity in your home between 35% - 55%.
The use of a humidifier during heating seasons may help reduce shrinkage
of the wood due to low humidity.
LD_080718 Copyright 2018 © Shaw Industries Group, Inc.
For reference purposes only if printed or downloaded.