First of all it’s necessary to confirm the substrate moisture content before laying the floor. It’s generally considered that the concrete substrate should have a maximum moisture content of 2%, ANYHRYDOWE substrate maximum of 0,5% and wooden maximum of 13%.If the moisture content is higher wooden floors cannot be installed because the humidity will penetrate the wood – which is a hygroscopic material. As a result it may change its dimensions, the floor may crack and gaps can appear. If the substrate has the right moisture content it’s also necessary to maintain appropriate humidity and room temperature. Which in this case should be respectively 50-60% humidity and 18-25 degrees Celsius room temperature. Every professional flooring installer should check the above measurements before he begins his work.
Wooden floors are a product 100% natural and so they live and work constantly. Wood is a hygroscopic material which means it absorbs humidity and as a result it changes it’s dimensions. It’s a big problem, especially when it comes to living in a varied climate such as ours (dry summers, humid falls). When the humidity drops the wood shrinks and gaps appear. When the humidity rises wood expands and the gaps disappear. We can avoid it by using air humidifiers that keep the humidity on the right level. Unfortunately it’s impossible to completely eliminate small gaps from showing up but it’s a completely natural process and therefore not something we should worry about. Wood is alive and this is how it reacts to environmental conditions.
Particleboard is a hygroscopic material (absorbs moisture) and it’s not recommended as a base to a wooden floor. It’s also not recommended to install a wooden floor on already existing floors. However you can install it on a waterproof OSB plates by first placing the plates (of appropriate thickness) and the wooden floor on top of them. The OSB plates must be screwed tightly so they remain fitted to the surface, then sanded so the glue can be equally spread.
Wooden floors can be installed on underfloor heating. In such situation it would be best to use a layered board with the build in system preventing the wood from expanding/shrinking.
A wooden floors is a perfect decoration of every room. To keep her flawless and beautiful for many years we need to take special care of her. The most common mistake we make is using the wrong chemical agents that ruin wooden surfaces. Our specialists will help you choose the best cleaning products, highly recommended for all types of finishes: varnish or wax oil. You should also keep in mind the most important rule: wooden floors should be cleaned with a damp cloth. Not wet because the excess of water causes wood darkening which is a irreversible process.
Every surface can be destroyed or scratched if it’s incorrectly used or finished off with poor quality products. We recommend using lacquers and wax oils of suitable durability. Our specialists will help you choose the right cleaning products suitable for various rooms and will advise you on how to take care of floors on daily basis.
