7 Bamboo Flooring Install Tips
Installing a bamboo floor yourself is not as complicated as it may seem but there are some basic rules that should be followed to ensure a troublefree set up. You can generally separate the whole process in two stages preinstallation and actual installation.
1. Invest on book. It is a good idea to get a book on general DoItYourself floor installation especially if you’re new to this. It will teach you basic knowledge and techniques that are used and give you more confidence that you’re capable of doing the job yourself.
2. Read the factory manual. Trivial indeed but there are many cases of people rushing to do the job without reading the guide book especially those who are experienced and have done such work before. It’s important to understand that although similar in construction and demands bamboo floor packages differ from brand to brand and from type to type. There are many subtle details that might impact the overall quality of the finished floor. Very often mistakes won’t become evident until months and years of exploitation. This may prove very costly to fix and replace. Some warranties also have a clause that demand you follow the manual or they become invalid.
3. Acclimatize the bamboo planks. Something that is a general rule for installing any type of floor cover. It is an essential step before attending the installation itself. Since humidity plays a big role to the structural unity of the floor planks it is important you let all of them stay for at least 72 hours in the room they’re going to be used. The room itself has to be set to the temperature and humidity levels it’s going to have in the majority of time later during normal use. If it’s a new built or renewed room make sure any construction plaster coating and paint have dried out completely before leaving the bamboo floor elements inside. That includes work done on the ceiling walls and subfloor.
4. Smooth dry and clean the subfloor. Speaking of subfloors this is very important indeed. Although tiny height differences are allowed aim for as smooth surface as possible whether it’s concrete cement plywood or vinyl. Make sure no dirt or other particles are left over as that would compromise the uniform protection to moisture and cause damage to the underside of the bamboo planks over time.
5. Decide on nails glue or floating floor. This is mostly down to the type of bamboo floor you’ve bought and the manual should specify which is best. With some you have the freedom in choosing the way it’s laid onto the subfloor. Nailing is easier to do and is suitable for solid and engineered bamboo floors while gluing is can be used for any type but takes more effort.
6. Below grade on grade or above grade? Grade is the virtual horizontal line that refers to the Earth’s surface around your house. Below grade is generally not suitable for natural material flooring like bamboo as it consistently exposes it to moisture. Still if you are putting on a floating floor this is a possible solution. On grade on the other hand is not as bad but there is still some risk especially with glued floors. Above grade is the best option so go with that if your house allows it.
7. Have proper equipment. Not only tools but also proper clothing is essential especially when dealing with glue. Protective overalls and gloves are necessary to ensure your own safety as well as making it easier to carry instruments around.
About the writer: If you would like to learn more about floors in general flooring types floor installation and floor cover maintenance tips visit http://AllAboutFloors.co.cc where you can read about flooring comparison cheap bamboo flooring laminate hardwood floors prefinished hardwood floor engineered bamboo flooring and more.
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