Installation Tips for Hardwood

Before installing your hardwood floor it is important to remember that wood comes from nature and, like the rest of nature, is not perfect and you should not expect it to be. However, there are industry standards which permit grading deficiencies exceeding 5% and the wood flooring you buy at our stores all adhere to those standards.

Inspect the wood carefully before installing. Be selective about wood with excessive deficiencies, naturally-occurring or caused by the manufacturing process. Either do not use them or try to cut off the deficiencies. If the material is not acceptable, do not install it and contact the seller right away. The installer should assume all responsibility for final inspections of the wood in terms of grade and finish. Take great care in making sure that the color and finish work according to your needs and tastes.
Not only does the wood have to adhere to industry standards, the job site environments and sub-surfaces do as well. Determine if they meet or need them. You must follow local codes as well as recommendations of the construction and materials industries which recommend that the subfloor be dry, stiff, and flat. The manufacturer will not take responsibility for job failures having to do with deficiencies in the sub-surface, sub flooring, or job-site environment.

Keep in mind that it is normal procedure to use stain, filler, or putty stick for touch-up during installation.
When ordering, it is always a good idea to add 5% to the actual square footage that you need to account for cutting and grading allowance. It is better to have more than you need than less.

When in doubt, throw it out! Do not use the piece if you are doubtful as to its grade, manufacture, or factory finish.

You should also accept as normal procedure the use of appropriate products to correct subfloor voids.
 
Next Installmement - Tools Needed for the job or visit http://thefloortrader.com/custom.asp?id=460369&page=15