Flooring

Job-Site Precautions

New houses are prone to high moisture levels from newly-poured concrete foundations, not to mention rain, sleet, and snow that can get into the framing and wood subfloors during construction. Problems can arise if subfloors aren't allowed to dry thoroughly prior to flooring installation.

Because hardwood flooring expands and contracts with changes in a home's humidity, the flooring and wood underlayment materials need to acclimatize for at least 4-5 days before installation. (Some manufacturers also recommend an acclimation period for laminate and vinyl flooring.) The installer should use a moisture meter to test for excessive moisture levels on all subfloors, including concrete, before putting down any hard surface. When job-site conditions are satisfactory, the flooring should be unwrapped and stored in the rooms where it will be installed. Temperature and humidity should be maintained at or near occupancy levels. Installers usually leave a gap between the floor and the wall to compensate for expansion and contraction, covering the gap with base molding.

Some new carpeting may give off vapors that are toxic to people with chemical sensitivities. To be on the safe side, let newly delivered carpeting sit in a detached garage or well-ventilated area for a day or two before installation.

After vinyl flooring has been installed, let the adhesive dry 24 hours before walking or moving furniture onto it. Hardboard or plywood runways should be used to move heavy appliances or furniture over vinyl or any other hard-surface flooring. In rooms with hardwood floors, place walk-out mats or area rugs at exterior doors to protect them from tracked-in dirt and moisture.

Better Homes and Gardens

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