TIMBER FLOORING INSTALLATION (TFR)

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Here is a comprehensive Timber Flooring Installation Guide, covering both floating and direct-stick methods. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, as some products may have specific requirements.

🔧 Tools & Materials Needed:
Moisture meter

Tape measure

Chalk line

Saw (circular or drop saw)

Flooring adhesive (for direct-stick)

Underlay (for floating floors)

Spacers

Rubber mallet

Pry bar or pull bar

Trowel (for adhesive)

Safety gear (gloves, eye protection)

🏗️ Pre-Installation Preparation
1. Acclimatization
Store timber planks in the room of installation for 5–7 days.

Lay boxes flat, not stacked, to allow airflow.

2. Subfloor Inspection
Subfloor must be clean, dry, flat, and level.

Moisture content should be below 5% for concrete and 12% for timber.

Level differences should not exceed 3mm over 1m span.

3. Room Conditions
Install in areas between 15–30°C and 30–60% RH.

Avoid installing timber floors in wet areas like bathrooms.

📏 Layout Planning
Decide on the direction of the planks (usually parallel to the longest wall or light source).

Mark a chalk line to maintain straight rows.

Leave a 10–15mm expansion gap around all walls, columns, and fixtures.

🛠️ Installation Methods
🔹 A. Floating Floor Installation
Install Underlay

Lay underlay across the room, slightly overlapping edges.

Tape seams and trim excess.

First Row

Start with the groove side facing the wall.

Use spacers to maintain expansion gap.

Cut the last board in the row to fit, saving the offcut to start the next row.

Subsequent Rows

Click or glue boards together (depending on locking system).

Stagger end joints by at least 300mm.

Finishing

Remove spacers.

Install skirting boards or beading to cover expansion gaps.

🔹 B. Direct Stick Installation
Apply Adhesive

Spread flooring adhesive with a notched trowel over a small area (as per product instructions).

Work in manageable sections.

Lay Boards

Place boards into adhesive, using a tapping block and mallet.

Maintain expansion gaps at walls.

Weight and Cure

Roll the floor with a flooring roller.

Allow adhesive to cure (typically 24–48 hours) before heavy foot traffic.

🧹 Post-Installation
Clean floor with a damp (not wet) cloth or hardwood cleaner.

Do not wet mop.

Protect floors with felt pads on furniture.

⚠️ Tips & Warnings
Never hammer directly on timber planks.

Don’t install during high humidity or extreme cold.

Always follow the specific installation instructions for your timber product.