Acclimatization of the boards Please remember the flooring comes from the northern hemisphere, so the boards will have left from a climate totally opposite to ours in Australia.
The boards are plastic wrapped so there is a definite need to acclimatize the boards to our local climate prior to installation. To do this the boxes will need to be opened and the plastic wrapping cut for at least one week prior to laying.
Air conditioned buildings If the installation is going into an air conditioned area it would also help to have the air conditioning on so the floor will be closer to the normal humidity levels of the rooms.
Shop fit outs
Most commercial fit outs are into constantly air conditioned premises. It is vital that in all commercial fit outs the floor boards have time to acclimatize in as close to normal operating temperature and humidity levels. Boxes will need to be opened, plastic wrapping cut clear and the boards left for seven days to adjust to local conditions.
The Climate
The climate at the time of installation must be taken into account. If the installation is in the winter months or the dry season gaps need to be 10mm and in the summer months or humid season closer to 5mm. If 12mm skirting boards are being used it is necessary to keep plaster boards raised 20mm off the sub floor.
Continuous Runs
Under no circumstances is the Bamboo flooring to have a continuous run across the boards in excess of 8 metres with out a control join.
The use of adjustable strap/ratchet clamps are needed
This is to ensure the joins between the boards are kept to a minimum, and ensure that the end joins stay closed after “tapping” in.
A continuous bead of glue is needed in all grooves
The quantity needs to be sufficient that when clamped there is a “showing” of glue on the upper surface.
Excess glue
This needs to be cleaned of the floor during installation with a clean wet cloth. If left until the end of the day there is a chance of a residual film forming that will incur additional cost to eradicate.
Open several boxes
Once you obtain your boards, open several boxes at a time, so that the boards are able to be mixed to compensate for colour variations from box to box.
Prior to installation
The boards will need to be inspected for flaws - if any are found these boards are to be put aside and not installed. The non inspection of boards and subsequent installation of faulty boards is not a warranty issue.
Your bamboo floor installer
If your installer is unwilling to follow these guidelines we will not be able to honor any warranty claims due to incorrect installation problems.
So please contact us with anything you are unsure of in regard to your new Bamboo floor installations.
