Installation and Care

Before you begin:

Install floor last when doing renovations
Heat your home for at least one week before installation
Keep subfloor dry and make sure basement is well ventilated
Acclimatize wood for at least 24 hours before installation
Maintain relative humidity between 35% and 55%

Acclimatizing your flooring:

Our quality process ensures that your wood has been properly dried to 6-9% moisture content and will perform well in any climate. It is important, however, that the installation environment provides suitable conditions for the wood to remain at a consistent moisture level.

Generally humidity levels should range between 35-55% and temperatures between 15-25 degrees Celsius in the environment where the flooring will be installed. The goal is to ensure that the moisture content of the wood flooring approximates that of the conditions of its surroundings. A change in moisture is what will cause your wood flooring to contract and expand. By ensuring the environment conditions are within the ranges described above, your flooring should experience minimal if any movement.

Installing a subfloor:

We recommend 5/8”-3/4” exterior plywood as the medium for your subfloor.

The wooden subfloor moisture content should not exceed 12% and the differential between the subfloor and the wood flooring should be less than 4%. If these conditions are not met, postpone installation and correct the moisture content by adjusting heat and ventilation until proper conditions are met.

The subfloor must be clean and free of contaminants as well as flat. If necessary flatten down any irregularities by sanding or fill any uneven spots with leveling compound.

Laying the floor:

To obtain the desired blend of colour and character we recommend laying the floor boards throughout the room as they will be installed to ensure a good mix of patterns and variations.

Our floors can be installed using a standard nailing machine. Nail and glue strips every 8” to 12” and no more than 3” from the board end.

Finishing your new floor:

All of our floors are supplied unfinished so that the look and character you desire can be achieved. We recommend a clear or light stain finish to beautifully enhance the rich patina and aged history of your new wood flooring. If, however, you prefer a darker stained finish we would be happy to assist in determining the look that is right for you.

Care and Maintenance:

To help you enjoy and appreciate the beauty and splendor of your new wood floor for years to come, follow the tips and tricks outlined below.

Sweep or vacuum regularly and damp mop occasionally. A solution of white vinegar and water applied with a spray bottle and mop is an inexpensive and effective home mixture to keep your floor shining.
Never use floor wax, oil-based detergent, or any other household cleaner on your floor. These products can damage the finish and leave a greasy film that makes your floor slippery and difficult to maintain.
Wipe up any spilled liquid quickly from your floor. Do not use a wet mop that can leave excess water behind.
Place mats outside and inside entrances.
Avoid mats with rubber or other dense backing that prevent airflow and trap abrasive dirt and moisture.
Attach felt pads to the feet of all furniture to make it easier to move and prevent scratches.
Maintain humidity levels between 35 and 55%, for your own health as well as for the protection of your floor and wooden furniture.