Proper storage and laying of parquet boards: tips from EVEROLI
To ensure that your flooring lasts a long time and looks perfect, it is important to follow the storage and installation instructions. Incorrect installation can lead to the loss of warranty conditions, so you should carefully read all the recommendations.
- Storage of the flooring. The parquet flooring should be stored in a dry, warm room where windows and doors are already installed and all wet work, such as plastering or pouring cement, is completed. It is also important to store the flooring in conditions similar to those in which it will be installed. Before installation, the parquet board must be acclimatized in the room for at least 48 hours.
- The responsibility of the owner. Before starting work, it is important to check that all products are in good condition and meet your requirements for color, texture, and quality. If there are any defects or inconsistencies, do not install such a board. If you find any damage during transportation, it must be immediately recorded in the documents upon acceptance of the goods and must be returned. Do not forget that when ordering a parquet board, it is necessary to add 5-7% of material for trimming and 12-13% in case of diagonal laying.
- Conditions at the site before installation. The installation of parquet flooring should be the final stage of repair or construction. Before starting work in the room, all "wet" processes must be completed, the walls painted, and all surfaces completely dried. It is important to ensure stable climatic conditions: the temperature should be between 18-24°C and the humidity level should be 40-60%. The moisture content of concrete substrates should not exceed 3%, gypsum substrates - 0.5%, and wooden substrates - 12%. Checking the flatness of the base is mandatory: deviations should not exceed 2 mm for every 2 meters of surface.
- Installation on underfloor heating. If you plan to install parquet on a floor heating system, special requirements must be observed. The maximum temperature of the floor surface should not exceed 27°C. You should also use flexible adhesives that do not contain water or solvents.
- The importance of proper installation. Installation of EVEROLI flooring is not just the last stage of the repair, it is an important process that affects the durability and beauty of your parquet. By following these recommendations, you will ensure your flooring's reliability and durability for many years.
How to lay parquet - types of installation
Parquet is an excellent choice for flooring in any room. Installing it can be a complicated process, but if you follow certain rules, everything will go smoothly and without problems. First of all, it is necessary to prepare the surface on which the parquet board will be laid. It should be flat, dry and clean. Then you should choose the installation method: glue or lock.
- Floating method (locking connection): the boards are connected to each other with locks without the use of glue. This is a simple and fast method that allows you to easily dismantle the flooring when needed. It is suitable for residential areas with medium load.
- Adhesive method: the planks are glued to the subfloor with parquet glue. This method provides a reliable and durable fixation and is suitable for large areas or rooms with high traffic.
Each method has its own advantages and is used depending on the operating conditions of the premises. You may also be interested in: skirting boards, glue for parquet boards or parquet board
How to lay a parquet board - the order of installation work
Laying parquet is a responsible process that requires the right approach, preparation of tools, and following certain steps. Regardless of whether you plan to install the flooring yourself or entrust it to professionals, knowing the key steps will help you achieve the perfect result.
Tools needed
First of all, you will need the following tools for any type of parquet laying:
- Dust mask and goggles for safety during work.
- Moisture meter - checking the moisture content of wood and the base (concrete or plywood).
- A saw - electric or manual for cutting boards.
- Hammer and spacers - for fixing the boards and maintaining compensation gaps (8-15 mm).
- Toothed trowel and adhesive - for adhesive mounting.
- If you plan to install with glue, you will also need masking tape and glue remover.
Preparing the base
The base for laying the parquet planks must be carefully prepared. It must be flat, solid, dry and clean. For concrete surfaces, it is recommended to apply a primer before laying to improve adhesion of the adhesive. If you are working on a heated surface, laying the parquet on the adhesive is the only recommended method.
Step 1: Prepare the room
Before starting work, select the wall from which you will start laying. It is best to start with the longest wall, in the direction of light or the main passage. It is important to leave a compensation gap between the plank and the wall (8-15 mm), which will allow the material to expand or contract depending on the temperature and humidity. This gap will be closed later with a skirting board.
Step 2: Apply the glue
To lay parquet planks with adhesive, use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly on the floor. Do this in batches, working on no more than 2-3 rows at a time to ensure that each plank is properly bonded. Avoid getting the adhesive on the surface of the parquet - it can damage it, so remove it immediately.
Step 3: Laying the first row
Lay the first row of boards from left to right, with the side with the spike facing the wall. Make sure that the boards are laid evenly, as this will ensure that the next rows are installed correctly. The distance between the joints of the boards in adjacent rows should be at least 20 cm.
Step 4: Laying the next rows
Laying the next rows begins with cutting the last board of the previous row. This ensures that the joints are properly offset, which will strengthen the entire structure. After installing each row, check for alignment and adjust the location if necessary.
Step 5: Completing the installation
Fit the last row of boards in such a way as to leave a compensation gap near the wall. After completing the work, let the adhesive dry according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then start cleaning the room. If additional work is planned in the room after laying the parquet flooring, cover the floor with a breathable material (for example, cardboard or paper). This will protect the flooring from possible damage.
Recommendations for care after installing parquet flooring
Natural wood flooring not only adds aesthetics to your interior, but also requires proper care to preserve its beauty and durability. By following a few simple recommendations, you can extend the life of your floor and preserve its original appearance.
- Temperature and humidity: Keep the room temperature between 18-24°C and the humidity between 40-60%. These parameters are important to prevent deformation of the boards.
- Use on underfloor heating: If your floor is equipped with an underfloor heating system, the maximum surface temperature should not exceed 27°C. Also avoid laying carpets or placing furniture with low legs, as this can impede air circulation.
- Cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner or soft brush to remove dust and dirt. The frequency of cleaning depends on the intensity of use of the floor. Avoid using damp cloths to avoid leaving wet marks.
- Prevent scratches: Keep the floor clean by removing sand and small particles that can scratch the surface. Door mats at entrances can help reduce the amount of dirt in the room.
- Furniture and floor: Place felt pads on furniture legs to prevent mechanical damage. Use protective mats under wheeled furniture to avoid scratches.
- Avoid over-tightening: Do not cover the parquet with plastic wrap or similar materials that prevent air circulation. This can lead to mold and unpleasant odors.
- Special products: Only use cleaning products that are designed for oiled wood floors. Other products may damage the surface and discolor it.
- Renovation: If the floor surface is damaged, you can refinish by sanding and re-oiling. Use only certified oils according to the instructions.
- Compliance with the recommendations: Failure to comply with these conditions may void the material warranty. Before performing any work on the floor, please read the operating conditions.
- Reporting defects: In the event of a defect, please report it within 14 days or the warranty will be void.
With these simple recommendations, you will be able to preserve the beauty and quality of your EVEROLI flooring for many years to come. Regular maintenance and compliance with the operating conditions will help to avoid troubles and ensure comfort in your home.