Installation Guide

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COMPLETING THE JOB – ALL INSTALLATIONS
 Sweep or vacuum floor
 Clean the floor with proper hardwood floor cleaner
 Install transition pieces -i.e. – thresholds, t-moldings, base boards and quarter round. Nail moldings to wall, not the floor.
 Inspect final floor for nicks and or minor gaps – fill with appropriate color wood putty.
 Unused material should be left with owner and stored in a dry place in case of future repairs are needed.
 Use plywood or hardboard when moving heavy appliances or furniture across floor.
Preventative Maintenance:
 Always protect floors from direct exposure of sunlight that can cause the wood or stain to change colors. Warranties do not cover
damage from UV exposure. Recommended humidity levels are between 35% R.H. - 55% R.H.
 Protect floors when moving heavy objects to prevent permanent scratches and tears. The use of plywood and heavy cardboard are
examples of protective barriers.
 Use appropriate wide floor protectors under tables, chairs, and any other heavy home furnishing to avoid permanent damage. As a rule,
the heavier the object, the wider the floor protector.
 Walk-off mats should be used at all entrances to absorb soil and moisture. The use of appropriate mats will help avoid scratches and
damages to the floor. If mats are placed directly on top of the hardwood floors, use proper indoor mats. Mats that can trap moisture
underneath have potential to cause possible discoloration. Latex and rubber backings should not be used.
 Area rugs are recommended in high traffic and pivot areas. Avoid shoes with spiked or damaged heels. Also keep pets’ paws and nails
cleaned and trimmed.
Floor Care and Maintenance
Remember, like any floor covering, our factory finished wood floors will show signs of wear over time, depending on the size and lifestyle of your
family. By observing a few precautions and setting up a regular cleaning routine and maintenance program, you can expect years of beauty from
your floor. The following are examples of the reasonable and necessary maintenance you are expected to perform. They are not intended to be an
exclusive list.
 Sweep or vacuum regularly since built-up grit can damage the surface of the wood. The vacuum head must be a brush or felt type. Be certain
the wheels of the vacuum are clean and do not damage the finish. Do not use a vacuum with a beater bar head.
 Remove spills promptly using a soft cloth and cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer.
 Mist a Neutral Ph hardwood floor cleaner to damp-mop your floor. Do not use hardwood floor cleaning machines or steam cleaners as this can
severely damage the flooring and will void the warranties. See section on Improper Maintenance.
 Use the manufacturer’s recommended Hardwood floor cleaners with a clean terry cloth mop. Always sweep or vacuum the floors prior to
using wood floor cleaners. Do not allow excess cleaner to remain on the floors surface as this may permanently damage the wood fiber.
 Important: Do not use oil soaps, liquid or paste wax products or other household cleaners that contain citrus oils, lemon oil, tung oil, silicon, or
ammonia since these warranties do not cover damage caused by non-recommended products. Use of these and other such products will harm
the long-term performance of your floor and may also affect its recoat ability.
 Do not use 2 in 1 cleaners with polish that may contain acrylics or urethane polish to restore gloss – the use of these products will void the
finish warranty and may produce unsatisfactory results when not applied properly.
 Keep pets’ nails trimmed, and paws clean and free of dirt, gravel, grease, oil, and stains.
 Place protective felt pads beneath furniture legs and feet to reduce scratches and dents. Replace pads as needed.
 Use a dolly and protective sheets of plywood when moving heavy objects, furniture, or appliances.
 Make certain furniture casters are clean and operate properly (a minimum 1” wide vinyl surface where it comes in contact with wood is
recommended). Clean wheels periodically to remove dirt and debris.
 Remove shoes with spiked or damaged heels before walking on floor.
 Exposure to the sun and its UV rays accelerates the oxidation and aging of wood. This can cause the stain and/or wood to fade and/or to
change color. We recommend that you rearrange rugs and furniture periodically so the floor ages evenly. Exotic species such as Brazilian
Cherry are more susceptible to color change during the aging process. These warranties do not cover damage from the sun and its UV rays.
 Use area rugs in high traffic areas and pivot points (e.g., stair landings, room entries, etc.), especially if you have a large family or indoor pets.
 Maintain the proper Relative Humidity in your home between 35% - 55%. The use of a humidifier during heating seasons may help reduce
shrinkage of the wood due to low humidity.
Shaw Industries Inc. 050318