Ridgeview Hardwoods

WOOD FLOORING INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES


Our flooring, unless specified otherwise, is shipped to you in random widths of unequal linear footage. A tally of the linear footage of each width is provided with each order when shipped. Installation of random width flooring requires only that the installer lay rows of the more prevalent widths more frequently than the widths of which there is less linear footage. Set patterns should be avoided; after all, this is random width flooring.


The most important concern before installing your plank flooring is jobsite moisture. All moisture emitting trades (plaster, drywall, masonry, etc) should be complete and their work thoroughly dry. The jobsite atmosphere should be stabilized with the operation of the heating or cooling system, depending on the season, for two weeks prior to the floor installation. Our solid ¾" plank flooring is not recommended for below grade installation or where any moisture intrusion is likely. 
The jobsite must be dry and the moisture content difference between the plywood sub flooring and your plank flooring should be 2% or less. If the difference is greater, acclimation of the flooring to jobsite conditions is essential until balance is achieved. Your plank flooring should arrive on the jobsite with a moisture content of between 7 and 10%. This is within the generally accepted mid-range of moisture content prior to installation nationwide. We highly recommend an acclimation period of at least 5 to 7 days in the atmosphere that the flooring is to be installed in. 


Random width flooring should be installed over a minimum 5/8" thick sub floor that is securely fastened to floor joists or a dry concrete slab. A fifteen pound felt or red rosin paper may be used between the sub floor and flooring as a moisture retardant, but should not be considered an effective moisture barrier. Random width planks up to 6" in width should be blind nailed through the tongue into the sub floor every 5 to 8". For widths of 7" and greater, blind nailing through the tongue coupled with face nailing or screw and plugging is recommended to help control seasonal movement. 


Hardwood flooring is generally sanded and finished after all trim and cabinetry is installed and finished. We recommend standard floor sanding procedures. Two passes with a floor sander ending with 100 grit paper is usually all that is required. After the final pass with the floor sander, vacuum and tack cloth the floor before applying the finish of your choice. The type of finish you use should be dependant upon desired appearance, area use and ease of maintenance desired. 
Maintain your new plank floor by using felt protectors on all furniture legs and walk-off mats at entries. Wipe up any liquid spills promptly and vacuum regularly. Damp mop (well rung out) and follow finish manufacturers instructions for cleaning.




 

 
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Ridgeview Hardwoods is offers a wide selection of both unfinished and pre-finished hardwood floors. Antique wood flooring is available in rustic and distressed grades. Large variety of exotic wood floors, like the Australian Cypress, Santos Mahogany and Brazilian flooring, come from all parts of the world. Offering wide plank wood floor including red & white oak, new heart pine, walnut, maple and more. Sitemap

Baltimore Floor Works. Westminster, MD 21157 Phone: 410 239 1912Fax: 410 871 9912