SUMMARY
Step-by-step instructions allow you to install your Northern Classics ™ ¾ solid prefinished hardwood floor yourself, more quickly and easily.
To ensure proper installation of your new floor, follow the recommendations under the "Installation Guide" section.
Remember that ¾ solid prefinished hardwood flooring also requires more care than ¾ solid unfinished flooring during installation in order to prevent damage to the finished surface. You should be very careful when handling the hardwood strips, tools, toolbox and nails, as well as when walking on the floor during the installation procedure.
Failure to comply with Lauzon's installation instructions and with recognized trade techniques will void the application of the warranty.
MATERIAL HANDLING
Place the hardwood strips in the room to be finished at least 48 hours before installation.
This will allow the wood to adapt to the room's temperature and humidity level.
Remove the strips from their packaging, then lay them on the floor in the pattern in which they will be installed.
Lay the strips parallel to the longest wall of the room.
Make sure the room is well ventilated.
If a hardwood strip contains an imperfection, simply cut out that section and keep the rest to complete a row or a closet.
Waste of 5% is considered normal and acceptable in the industry.
MEASURING
Carefully measure the room's dimensions. The last row of hardwood strips must be at least 1 inch (25 mm) wide, so that the strips can be secured properly. If this is not possible, you will then need to reduce the width of the first row proportionately.
It is possible to make a square room look long by laying the strips in the direction of incoming
light. You have to install planks as shown below; against
the direction of joists.
PRE INSPECTION
Make sure that the subfloor is straight, leveled, and also completely dry.
A vapor barrier should be installed betwen the subfloor and the new hardwood floor. We suggest using a
wax floor underlayment. Remove baseboards and door sills.
Using a handsaw, undercut the bottom of the door frames at 3/4" (20 mm) in order to slide a hardwood strip beneath the door. The bottom of the doors may also need to be cut.
TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES
Mitre saw and table saw
hardwood floor nailer (manual or pneumatic)
vacuum cleaner or broom
rubber mallet
touch-up kit including
colored wood filler
marker
lacquer
abrasive pad
nail punch
handsaw
square
claw hammer
electric drill
bit (3/32" / 2 mm)
chalk line
measuring tape
pencil
safety glasses
Types of nails
hardwood nails (2" / 50 mm)
shank nails
finishing nails
staples if you are using pneumatic floor nailer
STEP BY STEP INSTALLATION 9 STEPS