Evaluating Jobsite Before Installation
No two hardwood flooring installations are alike and each jobsite comes with its own set of specs and challenges. When you run into head-scratchers on the job or your clients have questions, we are your go-to resource for problem-solving.
Before wood flooring is delivered for installation, it’s important to evaluate the jobsite for potential problems. Wood flooring should be one of the last jobs completed on the construction project, and clients who will be living on the premises during installation need to be informed of possible disruptions of daily activities and educated about timeframes for use following installation.
Before Installation, Ensure That:
- Exterior surface drainage should direct water away from the building.
- The building is enclosed.
- If heating and/or air conditioning is in operating condition, it needs to be operating and temperature can be maintained at 60-80 degrees F during installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that mimics normal temperature and humidity conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is operating.
- Appropriate temperature and humidity conditions have been achieved. Appropriate temperature and humidity conditions are defined as those conditions to be experienced in the building after occupancy.
- All concrete, masonry, plastering, drywall, texturing and painting primer coats are completed.
- Basements and crawl spaces are dry. If power washing is required in the basement, do so before wood flooring is installed and allow subfloor and basement to dry before installing wood flooring.
- Hardwood flooring and the sub-floor have been moisture tested for appropriate levels
See our Climate and Moisture section for more on this important topic.