BIYORK NOUVEAU 8 Waterproof Floors Instruction Manual

BIYORK NOUVEAU 8 Waterproof Floors

INSTALLER RESPONSIBILITIES

Installer/Owner assumes all responsibility to inspect all flooring before installation. Inspect each board carefully for damage prior to installing it. Our floors are manufactured in accordance with accepted industry practices which permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. These defects may be the result of manufacturing or naturally occurring characteristics of the wood material. It is recommended that a minimum 5% cutting or grading allowance be added to the total square footage required. Boards that are judged to be defective should not be installed or should be installed in an inconspicuous location where they will not be noticeable (e.g. inside a closet). If the installer/owner feels flooring material is off-grade, wrong colour, improperly manufactured, wrong gloss level and finish problems, DO NOT INSTALL the flooring. Immediately contact the seller from which the flooring was purchased. The installer/owner is fully responsible for all installed hardwood flooring.

Installation Warrants Acceptance
Prior to installation of flooring, installer/owner must determine that the jobsite environment and subfloor meet or exceeds all applicable standards.

• BIYORK warranties DO NOT cover materials that are installed with visible defects.
• BIYORK declines any responsibility for wood floor failure after installation resulting from job site environment, construction damage,or subfloor deficiencies.

CAUTION: Wood Dust
Wood dust becomes a potential health problem when wood particles from cutting become airborne. Breathing these particles may
cause allergic respiratory symptoms, mucosal and non-allergic and possible cancer. The extent of these hazards and the associated wood types has not been clearly established. It is recommended to use Power tools equipped with a dust collection system. If high dust levels are unavoidable, an appropriate NIOSH- approved dust mask should be used. Avoid contact with eye and skin.

ON-SITE PREPARATION

EVALUATE JOBSITE TO ENSURE READINESS
All wood products are hygroscopic,they will contract and expand with the changing of the seasons. The use of an appropriate environment may reduce the degree of contraction (shrinking) and expansion. Make sure your project site is ready. All wet trades (concrete, plastering, masonry, drywall, spray texture and painting) should be completed with ample time for drying allowed. New concrete must be cured at least 60 days prior to delivery of wood floor. The building should be enclosed and the heating/cooling/system operational for a minimum of 14 days. The flooring should not be delivered until the environment is at normal living conditions (approximately 70° F and interior relativehumidity between 35 to 55%). Cartons of our products must be opened and be laid flat in the room where they are to be installed for a minimum of 72 hours before being installed.

ACCLIMATION

BIYORK recommends the engineered wood flooring be acclimated in the controlled environment before installation for 72 hours. Acclimation depends on geographical location, interior climate control, and time of year. The reason for acclimating the wood flooring before installation is to allow the moisture content of the wood to adjust to the installation jobsite’s “expected normal living conditions” that is temperature and relative humidity that will be experienced once the structure is occupied. Typically, RH fluctuates no more than 20% per geographical location.

• Jobsite Conditions must be maintained between 60-80°F (15-26°C) and relative humidity between 35- 55% before, during and after the installation.
• Cartons should be stored away from any heating/cooling ducts.
• Cartons should be stored away from direct sunlight.
• 5″ of airflow around is required for the cartons to be stored with.

MOISTURE TESTING

Concrete Subfloors:
Moisture testing is an essential part of determining the suitability of a concrete slab to receive our engineered
hardwood floor covering. Moisture testing must be performed on all concrete slabs and should be conducted
with the area at service conditions (i.e., with the permanent HVAC in operation, fully enclosed with all outside
doors and windows, radiant heat in full working order).
Concrete subfloors must be tested for moisture as per ASTM standards.

• Calcium Chloride Test (ASTM F 1869):The maximum vapor emissions cannot exceed 3lbs/100oSF in 24 hours.
• In-Situ Probe Method (ASTM F 2170): The Rh levels should not exceed 75%. Testing proced ure can be found in the NWFA installation guidelines.

Wood Subfloors

• There are many methods to test the moisture of subfloor. We recommend the test to be done with a quality moisture meter such as Delmhorst, Wagner, Tramex, or Lignomat.
• Use pin or pin less wood moisture meter to test the moisture. The wood subfloor moisture content should not exceed
• 12%. (the subfloor should not exceed 4% differential between the Engineered Hardwood floor & subfloor)
• Moisture testing on wood subfloor requires 20 measurements per 1000 SF.

Wood Flooring:
Test the wood flooring to ensure moisture content is within allowable limits. Open several boxes of product and test moisture content of the wood flooring with a professional moisture meter. Wood flooring should have a moisture content between 6% and 9%.

Subfloor Requirements:
Our engineered flooring may be installed over OSB, or plywood subfloor within the following parameters:

• Subfloor must be flat, meeting a minimum of 3/16” in 10’ radius and/or 1/8” in 6’. Level low spots with appropriate leveling
  material.

• Subfloors must be clean. Scrape or sand the subfloor to remove all foreign materials.

• Subfloors must be free of loose areas and squeaks before installation can start. Re-secure any loose subfloor as necessary

• Subfloor must be dry before you begin installation (see moisture testing above).

Wood Subfloors

• BIYORK requires subflooring 3/4” (23/32”, 18.3 mm) CDX grade plywood subfloor/ underlayment (Exposure 1), 4’x8’ sheets or ¾” (23/32”, 18.3mm) OSB sub floor/ underlayment grade, PS2 rated, sealed side down, with joist spacing of 19.2” (475) oncenter or less.

• Minimum Subflooring – 5/8” (19/32, 15.1mm) CDX plywood subfloor/underlayment (Exposure 1), 4’x8’ sheets, maximum16” on center joist construction.

• When joist spans exceed 16” on center, we advise an additional sheet of ½” CDX grade plywood be added to limit potential deflection.

• Follow subfloor panel manufacturer’s recommendations for spacing and fastening schedule.

• 1×6” pine subfloor over joists 16” on center is acceptable as long as structurally sound. DO NOT nail over particleboard or products of a similar nature as you will void your warranty.

• If high or low spots in the subfloor exceed the tolerances specified above, sand down the high spots and fill the low spots
  with leveling compound approved for installation method, or other material approved for use under wood flooring. NWFA
  states it is the builder’s or general contractor’s responsibility to provide the wood-flooring contractor with a subfloor that is within the tolerances listed above.

• Nail or screw any loose areas of wood subfloor prior to installation to minimizing subfloor squeaking. Any subfloor with excessive vertical movement will cause squeaking.

• Check for appropriate subfloor moisture levels as per NWFA requirements.

INSTALLING

Our engineered hardwood flooring may be installed:

• Above, on, or below grade
• DO NOT install flooring in a bathroom, laundry room, or any area that may experience elevated moisture, such use will void the product warranty.
• DO NOT install over radiant heat applications.

STAPLE/NAIL DOWN/Glue Assist METHOD
Do Not Use Staple/Nail Down Method over Radiant Heat

• Undercut door casings and jambs using jambsaw or handsaw.
• Remove any existing baseshoe or baseboard and save to re-install upon completion.
• Roll out and staple down acceptable vapor retarder with a perm rating of .7 and less than 10 and overlap seems a minimum of
  4 inches or more.

Approved Vapor Retarders

• Aqua-bar
• Silicone Vapor Shield
• Asphalt-Saturated Felt: ASTM D 226, Type I #15 Tar Felt

Flooring Direction

• It is recommended engineered flooring be installed perpendicular to floor joists or on a diagonal for any single layer panel
  type subfloor.

Wall Line Layout

• Starting from the longest wall will provide the best visual effect.

• Stagger all plank end joints at least 6” apart in adjacent rows, avoid H patterns.

• Work from 3 or more cartons to ensure maximum colour and shade blend.

• Select and use the straightest and longest planks should be used for the first few rows. Lay the remainder out on the floor in the general pattern in which they will be installed. Those with concerns must be removed and cut and used as starter or closing planks or in closets, under cabinets or discarded as waste.

• Lay the groove edge of the flooring facing the wall, leaving a minimum of 1/2” expansion space between the groove edge and the starting wall. This expansion space will allow for the wood to expand if necessary due to environmental changes.

• Lay the first row and top nail surface 10 to 12” apart on face of flooring, and countersink if necessary. Fill holes with approved
  matching wood putty

• Each additional row of flooring with the floor-nailing machine until the last row and any area that nailer will not fit. Fasten flooring through the tongue on a 45-degree angle (blind nailing) using the appropriate power nails or cleats that machine manufacturers recommend.

Fastening Schedule

• * Staples 16 gauge 1 ½ – 2 inch

  • Cleats 16 gauge 1 ½ – 2 inch
  • 2-3” off plank end
  • 6-8” in the field
  • Always test fastening equipment prior to installation.
  • Ensure staple or cleat, is seated properly within the nail bed.
• Cleats are preferred for high-density wood species. Minor occasional noise (such as squeaking) within the flooring is inherent to all staple and nail down applications and can occur as environmental conditions change.
• Mechanically fastened products are not warranted against squeaking or popping sounds.

BIYORK – GLUE ASSIST RECOMMENDATION

• Lazy S pattern or Serpentine method – Industry Standard Application.
• Engineered Wood Flooring 6” inches or wider, we recommend the glue assist method.
• Nouveau 6 – recommended
• Nouveau 7 – recommended
• Nouveau 8 – Required
• Glue-assist is an asset that could minimize plank movement, strengthen overall stability, and combat potential unwanted noise concerns.
• Polyurethane adhesives can be used.
• Please note some OSB subfloors may not be suitable for glue down or assist applications as these substrates contains wax resins, which can lead to adhesion failure.
• Plywood subfloors are recommended for this application.

NOTE: SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR WIDE WIDTH ( >7”/180MM) FLOORING
Shrinkage and cupping in wide width flooring may be reduced by gluing the flooring to the subfloor along with the use of mechanical fasteners. Glue- assisted applications will not perform correctly without direct contact with the subfloor. The glue  should be a premium grade urethane flooring adhesive applied in a serpentine pattern to the back of the hardwood flooring.

• The last 1-2 rows will need to be face nailed when wall clearance does not permit blind nailing. Pre-drill holes on the surface of the planks 1” (2.5cm) in from the front edge (tongue side), and 3” in from the ends. Space the holes 10”-12” apart. Secure nails using a hammer and nail set.
• At the final row, measure the width of the space for the last row of boards. You may need to rip the planks to match the width of the space remaining.
• Always fill nail holes with approved putty

Glue Down Method

• Flooring can be glued directly to concrete/gypsum with a minimum compressive strength of 3000 PSI.

• DO NOT install over steel toweled, slick, burnished, painted or sealed concrete. Abrade, grind, or roughen surface as
  necessary per flooring adhesive manufacture requirements.

• Use an appropriate NIOSH-designed dust mask and dust containment system.

• BIYORK recommends completing a bond test prior to installation to ensure maximum bond performance.

• INSTALLATION LAYOUT—FOLLOW SECTION OUTLINED ABOVE

• SPREADING THE ADHESIVE—FOLLOW FLOORING ADHESIVE MANUFACTURER’S GUIDELINES

Radiant Heat Applications:
BIYORK Engineered Hardwood floors are approved for installation over radiant heated subfloors using either floating method or
Gluedown over radiant heat ONLY for the applicable product (Hickory is not a suitable species over radiant heat. As it has the
tendency to split and check when low moisture content levels are present). Nail or Staple Down installation methods are not
recommended for Radiant Heated Subfloors.

NOTE: If the chosen method of installation is by gluing, check with the adhesive manufacturer for detailed instructions for the proper method(s) of application/preparation before the installation begins. Radiant Heating Systems must be specifically designed and controlled for hardwood flooring by the radiant heat system manufacturer which will include an outdoor temperature sensor, and subfloor surface temperature sensor. The end user/homeowner should be aware that minor gapping between wood planks during the heating season is a normal
occurrence with any hardwood flooring installed over radiant heated subfloors. The use of proper humidity controls such as
humidifiers within the installed area will help minimize natural wood reaction to seasonally changing interior climate conditions.

Temperature/RH Requirements:
The indoor relative humidity should be maintained between 60-80° F and a relative humidity range of 35%-55% at all times. It is critical that the relative humidity does not drop below 35%, otherwise, you may experience the following condition(s) to include gapping/shrinking, checking, cracking, splitting, warping, bowing and wear-layer delamination. During the heating season expect some separations between the edges of each plank. Make sure that the floor moisture content does NOT go below 7%. Changing the temperature setting only 2 to 3 degrees up or down in a 24-hour period is recommended, otherwise, you may experience the conditions mentioned above. Newly installed water-type radiant heated flooring systems should be in operational mode with the temperature set between 64° -72°F, for a minimum of 4 weeks to drive out all subfloor moisture ensuring the subfloor is dry. Older water-type radiant floor heat systems should be fully pressure tested, properly maintained, and set to a minimum of 64°F, for at least 4 days before flooring delivery; acclimation, or installation processes may begin. If the installation is by gluing the floor down always follow the adhesive manufacturer’s guidelines. All radiant heating systems must be set to room temp. (A minimum of 64°F), for at least 4 days before flooring delivery; acclimation, or installation processes may begin. Always check wood subfloors to ensure that the moisture content is less than 12% using an accurate wood moisture meter. It is recommended to document all moisture measurements pre, and during the flooring installation.

Concrete: concrete subfloors must be “dry”, using ASTM F 2170 or ASTM F 1869, the use of an electric moisture meter only provides an indication of surface MC. Refer to NWFA for concrete testing requirements. When gluing down the wood floor, the pH level of concrete subfloors should be within the adhesive manufacturer’s guidelines. Subfloors must fully comply with these “dry” requirements before proceeding with the delivery, acclimation, or installation of the wood flooring at the job site. After completing the installation, do not change the radiant heat setting for 48 hours and refer to flooring adhesive manufacturer requirements. Throughout the life of the installation, 2 to 3-degree daily increments must be used when adjusting system temperature for either upward or lower adjustments; so that the hardwood flooring can adjust to the temperature changes in a gradual manner. The flooring surface temperature should never exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Regulate the Jobsite to ensure that the relative humidity is between 35%-55%, and that temperature is between 60°-80°F, throughout the flooring delivery, acclimation, and installation and should be maintained annually.
Note: Homeowners are encouraged to purchase digital hygrometers in order to maintain relative humidity levels annually. A dehumidifier (summer) and humidifier (winter) are recommended to control levels during seasonal change.

AFTER INSTALLATION

Sweep/vacuum the floor and clean lightly with an approved hardwood flooring cleaner. (See Maintenance instructions below)
Explain to the homeowner the importance of the need to maintaining proper temperatures and relative humidity requirements at all times. If the floor is not going to be occupied immediately, these requirements must still be followed Window coverings should also be addressed at this time, to reduce direct sunlight on the flooring.

Maintenance:
The indoor relative humidity levels should be maintained year around between 35% and 55%, and the interior room temperature should be between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (26°C). Sweep, dust, or vacuum the floor with the hard surface brush attachment (not the beater bar) regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt or grit that can scratch or dull the floor finish.

Hard-wax or Penetrating Oil Finishes (For the color Cigar only) Use Woca Natural Soap and Woca Oil Refresher as directed on labe:

• Sweep or vacuum before cleaning engineered hardwood with WOCA Soap.
• In one bucket, mix a solution of WOCA Soap (well shaken) and lukewarm water. Pour lukewarm water in a second bucket and use as rinse water.
• Dip a clean mop in the soap solution. Wring mop. The mop head should retain enough moisture to dampen a 4’ x 8’ section of flooring. Spread the solution across the work area, then mop the damp area as you would a vinyl kitchen floor. For very dirty spots, let the solution set for a few minutes, then come back to the spot and scrub with a dish scrubbing brush. Continue mopping until the mop head becomes dirty or is not moist enough to thoroughly clean.
• Dip mop in the rinse water bucket. Slosh around very well. Wring the mop head as thoroughly dry as possible. This will remove dirty water and keep the mop head clean. Do not rinse the previously cleaned floor.
• Dip mop in the soap solution and wring. Clean the next section.
• Repeat process until the entire floor has been cleaned. The floor should be dry within 5 to 15 minutes. If water is still visible on the floor surface after 2-3 minutes, the mop was too wet during the cleaning process. Wipe up excess water and reduce moisture in the mop.

UV – Urethane Finishes (for all colors other than Cigar)

• DO NOT wax or use any oil soap or cleaning product that leaves residue on the floor.
• DO NOT use steam-assisted cleaning mops on the wood floor.
• Use a cloth to blot up spills as soon as they happen. Never allow liquids to stand on your floor.
• Use mineral spirits or denatured alcohol on a clean white cloth to clean tough spots such as ink, paint, oil, or markers. Wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.

Inappropriate maintenance might cause damage to hardwood floors and will void the warranty. BIYORK Materials Canada Inc. reserves the right of inspection if claim is filed.

Disclaimer of Non-Responsibility:
Statement/disclaimer of non-responsibility (voids any/all applicable warranties offered by BIYORK) pertaining to labor/ material costs and or damages caused to any/all cabinets, furniture, countertops, built-in ranges/stoves, moldings/trims, fixed furniture/wall units, wallpaper, painting, specialized plaster coatings, etc., as a result of removal of the flooring due to cupping, buckling, twisting, bowing, shrinking, lifting, moving etc. BIYORK reserves the right to void any/all warranties if, and when guidelines above are not followed. The general/flooring contractor/designer/homeowner/etc., assumes ALL responsibility for any/all damages/costs incurred if hardwood flooring is installed without complying to the installation guidelines mentioned above.

In The Event Of A Claim

In the unlikely event of a claim under the BIYORK Warranty, BIYORK reserves the right to conduct inspections of the BIYORK flooring and or finish subject to the claim. These inspections may be carried out by a NWFA inspector any time after a claim has been filed. During this time, BIYORK has the right to conduct as many inspections as needed to establish proof of claim. Under no circumstances shall BIYORK Flooring be responsible for any claim, loss or damage arising from the purchase or use of its products that seek to recover special, indirect, incidental, consequential damages or attorney’s fees regardless of the theory of recovery and without limitation. All claims submitted consistent with this Warranty require evidence of the purchase date and identity of the original purchaser along with proof of required maintenance.

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