Install
3) Subfloor
1. Check subfloor moisture level
Wooden subfloor moisture reading must not exceed 12% and differential between boards and subfloor must be less than 4%. If moisture reading is too high, postpone installation, and find moisture source and correct it. If needed, raise heat and increase ventilation until proper conditions are met.
Owner and installer are solely and jointly responsible for pre-installation subfloor moisture level check and must ensure that it is, and remains, within the recommended range.
2. Check subfloor conditions
Check soundness of subfloor and correct if necessary. It must also be flat. If necessary, flatten down any irregularities using #20 grit paper or fill any uneven spots with leveling compound.
3. Clean subfloor
Subfloor must be clean and free of contaminants.
4) Preparation
4. Sketch out the installation
Determine starting point or wall and strip layout angle. It is recommended that you lay strips at a 90° or 45° angle to joists.
5. Lay felt paper
Lay felt paper [or equivalent] across entire surface to be covered.
6. Open a few boxes and lay out strips in the same way as they will be installed
To create a more pleasing appearance, lay out the floor strips throughout the room in the same way as they will be installed to ensure a good mix of colors and nuances. Remove or relocate strips you do not want. Select which strips go best with transition moldings that will be installed.
Tip: Pay attention to the patterns created by the variations in the color of the wood.
Tip: Keep less attractive strips for areas of the room where they'll be less visible.