allen roth 191141 Solid Bamboo Wood Tongue and Groove Flooring Instruction Manual
- October 27, 2023
- Allen+Roth
Table of Contents
allen roth 191141 Solid Bamboo Wood Tongue and Groove Flooring
PACKAGE CONTENTS
- Plank
- Planche
- Plancha
- x23.8 sq. ft
- x2,21 m2
- x2,21 m2
SAFETY INFORMATION
CAUTION
- Vacuum or sweep regularly. Do not use vacuums with beater bar or power brush attached. They could scratch the floor.
- Use walk off mats in all exterior doorways.
- High heels will cause damage to wood floors.
- Keep pet’s nails trimmed.
- Never slide heavy furniture or appliances across floor.
- Clean up wet spills immediately with clean, dry cloth.
- Never wet mop soaps, wax or other household cleaners on your wood floor.
- Temperature and Humidity must be controlled in the space the floor is installed. Temperature should be between 62-73 F (17-23 C). Relative humidity should remain between 35%-65%. Gapping may occur if humidity drops below 30%.
PREPARATION
Thoroughly examine the flooring prior to installation for grade, color, finish
and quality.
Ensure adequate lighting for proper inspection. If flooring is not acceptable,
do not install the floor. Please contact the seller immediately and arrange
for replacement. The NWFA states that up to 5% of material may be culled for
blemishes or defects without being considered defective. Please note our
products contain a standard pattern variation and installers should be working
from multiple open boxes to ensure boards are blended throughout. The
manufacturer cannot accept responsibility for installation of flooring with
visible defects. Installation of this product warrants the acceptance by the
installer or owner for the quality of the material, as well as conditions in
which the material is being installed therein.
It is the Installer/Owner responsibility to ensure that the conditions are acceptable prior to the installa-tion of the hardwood floors. The manufacturer declines any and all problems associated with the hardwood flooring that are related to or attributed to improper jobsite conditions. Any splits, cracks, grain raising, checking, edge fracturing, splintering, cupping, crowning/peaking, warping, twisting, expansion/contraction, buckling or chipping that occurs during or after the floor has been installed and as a result of abuse, misuse, improper maintenance or care, exposure to excessive or insuffi-cient moisture, improper environmental conditions including excessive heat from radiant heat systems are not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Prior to installation of any flooring, the installer must ensure that the jobsite and subfloor meet the requirements of these installation instruc-tions. All necessary accessories, including trim, must be present at the jobsite prior to beginning installation. The manufacturer is not responsible for flooring failure resulting from unsatisfactory jobsite and/or subfloor conditions. When purchasing flooring, per NWFA guidelines we recommend adding 5%-15% to actual square footage needed for cutting allowance and to compensate for culled material. It is acceptable, per the NWFA guidelines, that up to 5% of material be outside the range of acceptance.
It shall be the responsibility of the Installer to document installation date, product SKU and Lot infor-mation, duration of product acclimation, flooring moisture content, subfloor moisture content, site relative humidity and site temperature. This information must be documented by the installer and a copy provided to the property owner to ensure product warranty coverage.
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES NEEDED
Moisture Meter, Tape Measure, Pencil, Chalk Line, Hand Saw or Power Saw,
Tapping Block, Crow Bar or Pry Bar, Wood or Plastic Spacers (1/2 in), Hammer
or Rubber Mallet, safety glasses, filter mask, earplugs.
FOR GLUE-DOWN INSTALLATION, YOU WILL ALSO NEED: Premium Wood Flooring
Adhesive, Adhesive trowel (as recommended by adhesive manufacturer)
FOR NAIL-DOWN INSTALLATION, YOU WILL ALSO NEED: Manual or pneumatic 16-gauge
floor nailer OR 16-gauge narrow-crown stapler, 1 3/4 in to 2 in 16-gauge
cleats or staples, Finish nailer and/or finish nails, Nail set, 15 lb. felt or
asphalt impregnated Kraft paper, Crow bar or pry bar, Color-matching wood
putty/filler
JOBSITE & PRE-INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
Bamboo flooring should be one of the last items installed for any new
construction or remodel proj-ect. All Bamboo flooring must be installed per
the manufacturers and NWFA installation guidelines. For more information about
NWFA guidelines please contact www.NWFA.org .
- All “wet” work – i.e. – paint, drywall, concrete, masonry, plumbing must be complete and dry prior to the delivery of hardwood flooring
- Gutters and downspouts should be in place and the exterior grade complete to allow for proper drainage of water away from the building’s exterior perimeter.
- HVAC should be on, operational and maintained between 60-80 degrees with a relative humidity of 35%-55% range a minimum of 5 days prior to delivery, during and after installation of the flooring.
- Test wood sub floors and wood flooring for moisture content using moisture meter recommended for bamboo flooring, such as Ligomat SDM or comparable. Take readings of the subfloor – minimum of 20 readings per 1000 sq. ft. and average the results. In most regions, a “dry” subfloor that is ready to work on has a moisture content of 12% or less and the wood should be within 2% for planks greater than 3 in wide and 4% for planks less than 3 in wide of the subfloor’s moisture content. Please refer to the NWFA moisture content by area map for specific requirements.
- Test the concrete subfloors moisture content by calcium chloride testing or by using an appropriate moisture meter. The moisture content for concrete subfloors registered after a calcium chloride test should not be greater than 3 pounds per 1000 square feet of area. If it exceeds these limits, DO NOT install the flooring. Before moisture testing begins, the slab must be cured for a minimum of 30 days. The moisture vapor emission rate for concrete subfloors must not exceed 75% RH using ASTM 2170 or 3 pounds per 1000sq ft per 24 hours using Calcium Chloride test ASTM 1869.
- If using a moisture meter, please refer to the recommended guidelines set forth for by that moisture meters’ manufacturer.
- Basements and crawl spaces must be dry. Use of a 6 mil black polyethylene is required to cover 100% of the crawl space earth. Crawl space clearance from ground to underside of joist to be no less than 18 in and perimeter vent spacing should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space area to provide cross ventilation in accordance with local regulations.
ALWAYS CHECK MOISTURE LEVELS BEFORE INSTALLING
Preparing and leveling the sub-floor:
- The subfloor needs to be structurally sound; do not install over particle board. Please refer to NWFA guidelines for sound substrate qualifications.
- The sub-floor should be free of any surface defect. If it is not, fill gaps with a Portland- based leveling cement (for concrete floors only) or sand/grind down any uneven areas. For wood floors, use a wood leveling patch or skim coat as needed.
- The sub-floor must be level and flat to 3/16 in (5mm) per 10’ radius or 1/8 in (3.2mm) per 6 ft radius.
- Any gaps in the sub-floor should not exceed 3/16 in (5mm).
- Use flooring screws into floor joists if necessary, to minimize squeaks in subfloor.
- The surface must be clean and free of any contaminants such as wax, paint, grease, dust, oil, nails, staples, old adhesive, etc. and thoroughly swept and free of all debris.
- For concrete installation, ensure that the concrete is not low-density (below 3000 psi) or gypsum based.
- Plywood must be CDX-rated at least 3/4 in thick. OSB must be 3/4 in, PS2 rated, and installed sealed-side down.
- Moisture content should not exceed 12%
ACCLIMATION
- Store this flooring at the installation area before installation to allow the flooring to acclimate and adjust to room temperature and humidity.
- Do not install the flooring until the moisture content of the subfloor where the flooring will be installed is within 2% for planks greater than 3 in wide and 4% for planks less than 3 in wide from the moisture content of the flooring.
- If you do not allow the flooring sufficient time to acclimate and the moisture content of the flooring exceeds that of the subfloor, the flooring will continue to contract after installation and gaps may develop between the flooring. Likewise, if the moisture content of the flooring is less than that of the subfloor, the flooring may expand and/or cupping may develop.
BLENDING OF CARTONS
To achieve a uniform appearance across the entire floor, we require that you
open and work from a minimum of four cartons at a time and lay out the
flooring ahead of time. Be sure to mix the planks for the best aesthetic
appearance. Make certain the room is well lit to ensure color is consistent
and that any visual defects can be seen and removed prior to installation.
LAYOUT OF FLOORING
“Racking the Floor” is essential to achieve a random appearance. Start by
cutting several boards in random lengths, differing the lengths by at least 6
in. As you continue working across the floor remember to maintain a six-inch
minimum space between the end joints.
Randomly install different lengths to avoid a patterned appearance. Never
waste materials; the end cuts from starter rows should be used at the opposite
side of the room to complete rows or may be used to start the next row.
EXPANSION SPACE
An expansion space of 1/2 in must be left around the perimeter of the room and
at all vertical obstructions. More or less spacing may be needed depending on
the geographical region, interior climate, and or time of the year. Your
bamboo flooring WILL move/shrink/expand. This is a normal occurrence of a
natural product.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
NAIL DOWN/STAPLE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Step One – Establish a Starting Point
- Remove any existing wall base, shoe molding, quarter round or doorway threshold.
- Determine the direction of the floor joists – Run the flooring perpendicular (90°) to the floor joists. Do not run flooring parallel to floor joists per NWFA Guidelines.
- Prior to installing flooring, roll out 15 lb. felt or asphalt impregnated paper in the same direction of the flooring. Overlap each row by 3 in to 4 in. This process will help to keep the floor clean and help to retard moisture from below.
- Establish a starting point. We recommend the longest exterior running wall.
- Measure the total width of the flooring (including the tongue), plus 1/2 in for expansion. Measure out this distance in at least 2 places from the starting wall and 12 in from the corners. Then, snap a chalk line parallel to the starting wall.
Step Two – Lay Out
- Choose the longest and straightest boards and align the plank’s tongue with the working line. Cut the last plank to the proper length leaving a 1/2 in from the end wall.
- Top nail the boards into place approximately 6 in apart and 1 in from the back edge (groove side) using a pneumatic nailer; Always use a nail set to sink the nail heads below the surface of the flooring. Remember to fill the holes with matching wood putty/filler.
- Continue to blind nail by hand each succeeding row until the nailer/stapler can be used to install the flooring. It is critical to make sure the starting row is properly aligned and straight.
- If necessary, we recommend pre-drilling pilot holes spaced 6 in to 8 in apart at a 45° angle along the tongue and blind nail the plank. Be sure to countersink the nails with a nail set.
Step Three – Rack the Floor
- Once the first four rows are in place, continue to lay out the planks. Remain working from at least four open cartons. Be sure to blend the planks and stagger the end joints a minimum of 6 in apart to ensure a favorable appearance. Avoid H-Joint and other repeating patterns in the floor.
Step Four – Installation of Flooring
- Once the initial rows are in place, begin installing the planks using either a manual or pneumatic nailer/stapler using 16-gauge cleats staples. Check to ensure the fastener is set to the proper depth and angle by adjusting the nailer/stapler shoes. Blind nail through the tongue using a minimum 1 1/2 in- 2 in staple or cleat; fasten the planks approximately 2 in to 3 in from the ends and every 8 in apart with a minimum of 2 fasteners per plank.
- Continue installing planks across the room and ending at the far wall using the manual or pneumatic nailer/stapler and following the recommended nailing schedule. Remember, never waste materials; the end cuts from starter rows should be used at the opposite side of the room to complete rows or to start the next row. As you reach the far wall it may be necessary to blind nail by hand until top nailing is required.
- It may be necessary to rip the last row to allow for the 1/2 in expansion. If the last row is 1 in or less glue the pieces to the last full uninstalled row and install them together. If needed, use a pry bar or lever to fit the remaining rows tight to the installed planks.
- Top nail the last 1-2 rows into place approximately 6 in apart and 1 in from the back edge (groove side) using a pneumatic finish nailer. Always use a nail set to sink the nail heads below the surface of the flooring. Remember to fill the holes with matching wood putty/filler.
SKIP TO STEP 5. Completing the job
GLUE-DOWN INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
The manufacturer recommends the use of a low-VOC, premium, water-free flooring
adhesive specifically
recommended by the adhesive manufacturer for use with engineered or solid wood
flooring.
Step One – Establish a Starting Point
-
Remove any existing wall base, shoe molding, quarter round or doorway threshold.
-
Determine the direction of the floor joists and run the flooring perpendicular (90°) to the floor joists.
Do not run flooring parallel to floor joists. -
Flooring may be installed in any direction over a concrete slab.
-
Establish a starting point. We recommend the longest exterior running wall.
-
Measure the total width of the flooring (including the tongue), plus 1/2 in for expansion. Measure out this distance in at least 2 places from the starting wall and 12 in from the corners. Snap a chalk line parallel to the starting wall.
Step Two – Lay Out
- Choose the longest and straightest boards and align the plank’s tongue with the working line. Cut the last plank to the proper length leaving a 1/2 in from the end wall. Lay out three additional rows, then move these rows away from the working area.
- Spread enough adhesive to just cover the area of the first four rows of flooring using the appropriate trowels and installation technique. Please refer to the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions for application. Never use a “wet-lay” adhesive, as this could trap moisture under the flooring, causing it to warp.
- Place flooring onto adhesive, one row at a time, making sure that all joints are tight and parallel. Be sure to use 100-150 lb. weighted roller to ensure complete transfer of adhesive; always protect the floor when using weighted roller.
- Allow the adhesive to set per the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendation. It is critical to check your work, making sure the starting row is properly aligned and straight.
Step Three – Rack the Floor
- Once the first four rows are in place, continue to lay out the planks. Remain working from at least four open cartons. Be sure to blend the planks and stagger the end joints a minimum of 6 in apart to ensure a favorable appearance. Avoid H-Joint and other repeating patterns in the floor.
Step Four – Installation of Flooring
- Trowel out a small working area of adhesive at a time. (approx. 3 ft or according to the adhesive manufacturers recommendation). This ensures the glue remains workable and still has a tack. Begin placing flooring onto adhesive, one row at a time, making sure that all joints are tight and parallel.
- When installing near a solid object or wall, leave a minimum of 1/2 in as required expansion space.
- It may be necessary to rip the last row to allow for the 1/2 in expansion. If the last row is 1 in or less, glue the pieces to the last full uninstalled row and install them together. If needed, use a pry bar to fit the remaining rows tight to the installed planks.
- When installation is complete, use wedges or spacers to hold wood in place while adhesive dries. Spacers may be removed after initial setting of adhesive to allow for normal expansion of wood.
- Roll and cross-roll floor with a 100-150 lb. roller at the end of the installation to ensure proper transfer of adhesive. Be sure the flooring is cleaned and completely free of any and all debris to avoid damage.
- Once you have completed laying the bamboo flooring, allow it to dry at least 24 hour without walking on it. (maybe longer if prescribed by the glue manufacturer).
STEP FIVE – COMPLETING THE JOB
- Clean the floor with a cleaner recommended for pre-finished hardwood floors and specialty terry cloth hardwood flooring mop available.
- Install transition pieces -i.e. – thresholds, t-moldings, base shoe. Always secure moldings to wall, not the floor.
- Inspect final floor for nicks and or minor gaps – fill with appropriate color wood putty/filler.
- Any unused material should be stored in a dry place in case future repairs are needed. We recommend saving at least 2 boxes.
SOLID ALLEN + ROTH® BAMBOO FLOORING CARRIES A LIMITED 30 YEAR RESIDENTIAL
WARRANTY
allen + roth® warrants to the original purchaser that the flooring will be free of manufac-turing defects, and the surface will not wear through, stain or fade for 30 years after the date of purchase of the product when used under normal indoor residential traffic conditions.
Wear-through is defined as total loss of pattern in a minimum of 2 square inch area, readily visible from a distance of 6 feet. Scratches and loss of gloss are not considered as wear-through. If the product wears through, stains or fades, allen + roth® will at its option replace or refund the portion of the floor in question as covered under this warranty. This warranty does not cover labor, unless professionally installed, nor any other incidental expenses incurred as a result of covered defect.
For the 30 year warranty, if a claim is made and approved after 1 year of purchase, allen + roth® will pay a pro-rated percentage of material cost, determined by the number of years from the date of purchase and the remaining period. For example, if the claim is made 15 years after the original purchase, then allen + roth® will pay 50% of the material. If professionally installed, reasonable labor may be paid for claims within 36 months from the date of purchase. No labor will be paid after 36 months.
This warranty is exclusive to the original purchaser and in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and all other remedies, guarantees or liabilities arising by law or otherwise.
WARRANTY
Warranty Exclusions
The owner/installer must inspect the color, finish and quality of the flooring
prior to installation. allen + roth® is not responsible for labor costs
incurred for flooring installed with visible defects. Isolated floor squeaks
are not a defect and are not covered under warranty. This warranty does not
cover damage caused by improper installation, negligence, water erosion,
abrasion, extreme heat or tem-perature, cleaning care or maintenance contrary
to written instructions provided by allen + roth®, physical abuse or misuse,
accidents causing indentation, scratching, impact, cutting, freight damage,
alteration, chemical damage or any wear or damage caused by acts of God. This
warranty does not apply if product is installed in areas where condensation
repeatedly occurs, or any other areas contrary to the recommendations of allen
- roth®, including, but not limited to, exterior applications, unstable/improper subfloors, areas exposed to excessive topical and ground moisture. Protective pads should be used under furniture legs, and mats should be used under any chairs with rolling casters.
Pet urine must be wiped up and not allowed to dry. allen + roth® excludes and will not pay incidental or consequential damages under this warranty.
By this we mean any loss, expense, or damages other than to the flooring
itself that may result from a defect in the flooring. No implied warranties
extend beyond the term of this written warranty allen + roth® assumes no
liability for incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow
the exclusion of limitation for incidental or consequential damages. In that
case, these exclu-sions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific
legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to
state. allen + roth® reserves the right to have a representative inspect the
floor and remove samples for additional evaluation if needed. No installer,
retailer, agent or employee of allen + roth® has the authority to increase or
alter the obligations or limitations of this warranty.
For Warranty Service
To make a claim, you may:
- Contact your allen + roth® retailer no later than 30 days after the discovery of the defect. Proof of purchase is required. Your retailer will assist in coordinating a resolution of your claim.
- OR: Contract a certified independent inspector (www.NWFA.org). The inspector should submit a copy of the inspection report directly to your allen + roth® retailer for consideration. Note that while independent inspections are credible and usually reliable, the final decision rests solely with allen + roth®. Only NWFA inspectors or other certified inspectors approved in writing, in advance by allen + roth® will be considered. Should the original floor be discontinued, allen + roth® will replace the defective material with a allen + roth® floor of equal value.
Questions, problems, missing parts?
Before returning to your retailer, call our customer
service department at 1-877-888-8225, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., EST, Monday- Friday.