Swinard Wooden Floors - Installation and Site Requirements

Installation and Site Requirements

Timber Storage
Any timber being stored on site prior to installation must be stored in conditions similar to those in which it is to be laid. This allows for acclimatisation. It cannot be exposed to moisture or direct sun. It should be stored at a minimum of 200mm above a concrete surface or ground with a moisture barrier in between. It will also need regular supports to ensure the boards remain straight.

New Properties
Two separate 20 amp power plug points will be needed for installation.

Skirting and toespaces must be left off until the floor is completed. On completion of the floor, installation of these is to be carried out by the builder or joiner, unless specifically arranged with Swinard Wooden Floors.

We require the building to be fully enclosed and all “wet” trades to have finished. We prefer to install the floor after all building work and painting is complete, except for the final coat of paint on walls, and prior to any carpet laying. We will not be held accountable for any accidental damage to finished paint work.

Any heating or air-conditioning systems should be operational. However, heating systems must be turned off 48 hours prior to installation and must remain completely turned off for a minimum of 7 days after the job is completed. See underfloor heating instructions.

Any levelling work must be done after the floor has been ground and sealed with a vapour barrier sealant by us. Fill any low spots with a proprietary levelling compound and primer, following the manufacturer’s specifications. We recommend the Roberts SL30 with additive 45 and 2 pot Super Primer 34. The primer is applied before levelling, to ensure a strong bond between the vapour barrier and levelling compound. Please note that levelling compound, applied underneath the vapour barrier, may be weakened by the presence of trapped moisture in the concrete slab.

Areas, where flooring is being laid, need to be clean, clear of all materials and other subcontractors until the job is fully completed (exceptions to this may be made by prior arrangement). Site conditions are extremely important to ensure a high standard of installation. These include temperature, humidity, dampness and dust. New concrete slabs must ideally be cured for four months after the building is closed in, however if a concrete moisture sealant is used, this time period can be reduced. Swinard Wooden Floors reserves the right to delay commencement or completion of a floor if conditions are unsuitable.

With a solid timber floor it is only once the floor has been installed, that the finishing process begins. No one must walk on the timber until 24hours after the final coat has been applied. Please ensure all windows and doors are closed and that the areas remain undisturbed. The flooring will then be inspected by the floor sander, or a representative of Swinard Wooden Floors, and the Project Manager. The floor is then to be covered with a protective layer supplied by Swinard Wooden Floors, but to be installed by others. This cover is to be left in place for a minimum of 7 days, but preferably until the project has been completed.

Please advise us of any specific requirements or expectations that you may have. These may include the time-frame, hours of work, security, sheen level, etc. We will endeavour to make your new wooden floor installation as convenient as possible. Dusting of premises is the client’s responsibility unless stated otherwise.

Established Properties
Two separate 20 amp power plug points will be needed for installation.

Floor preparation is generally required and is specific to each floor. This could range from cleaning only, to sanding/grinding or levelling. Provision for your specific requirements will be included in your quotation, with the exception of any unforeseen work under existing floor coverings, e.g. dry rot, an uneven surface or faulty concrete.

Removal of skirting is usually necessary before installation and will generally be refitted or, if necessary, replaced once the floor is completed. Alternatively, a bead can be fitted against the skirting. This can either be painted to the colour of the skirting or matched to the wood of the floor. This work is to be carried out by others, unless previously arranged and quoted.

Appliances and toilet pans need to be removed before installation. This will generally be carried out by Swinard Wooden Floors Ltd. Re-installation is the responsibility of the client.

Heating systems must be turned off 48 hours prior to installation and must remain completely turned off for a minimum of 7 days after the job is completed. See underfloor heating instructions.

Whilst every effort will be made to minimise disruption during installation, there is inevitably some inconvenience. This may mean kitchen, laundry or toilet areas are out of service for a few days. There will be dust and polyurethane fumes during the finishing of solid timber floors, depending on the finish used. We suggest closing off areas to prevent dust drifting, and the removal of indoor plants and foods that may be affected by fumes - please note food in fridges can also be affected. In some instances, it may be prudent to vacate the premises during part of the installation. If this is required, we will discuss it with you.

Areas, where flooring is being laid, need to be clean, clear of all materials and other subcontractors until the job is fully completed (exceptions to this may be made by prior arrangement). Site conditions are extremely important to ensure a high standard of installation. These include temperature, humidity, dampness and dust. Swinard Wooden Floors reserves the right to delay commencement or completion of a floor if conditions are unsuitable.

With a solid timber floor it is only once the floor has been installed that the finishing process begins. No one must walk on the timber until 24hours after the final coat has been applied. Please ensure all windows and doors are closed and that the areas remain undisturbed. The flooring will then be inspected by the floor sander, or a representative of Swinard Wooden Floors, and the Project Manager. The floor is then to be covered with a protective layer supplied by Swinard Wooden Floors, but to be installed by others. This cover is to be left in place for a minimum of 7 days.