Installation & Troubleshooting
Let our years of experience of hardwood flooring be a guide to helping you bring your home’s new feature to completion.
For full instructions on how to install a Maine Traditions Hardwood Floor, download a PDF below. These guidelines are subject to change. Please refer here for updates or revisions to current documentation.
Cupping
Problem:
When the relative humidity is high, wood absorbs moisture and expands.
High moisture content of the subfloor
Water damage
Insufficient expansion gap
Solutions:
Control humidity level with dehumidifer or heating system and good ventilation
Maintain a 45% relative humidity level
Raise heat and increase ventilation
Responsibility:
Owner
Installer
Sunshading, Fading
Problem:
When exposed to the sun or other intense light, wood darkens and yellows over time
Solutions:
Occasionally move mats and rugs around to minimize sun exposure and keep changes in color uniform
Responsibility:
Owner
Gapping or Shrinking
Problem:
When the relative humidity is low, wood releases its moisture and contracts, while the plywood base remains stable
Relative humidity level too low
Room too dry
Installation when strips were too humid
Solutions:
Use a humidifier to minimize excessive shrinking of wood strips
Maintain relative humidity level around 45%
Responsibility:
Owner
Installer
Localized Gapping
Problem:
A heat source under surface such as a poorly insulated heating duct or hot water plumbing line
Solutions:
Insulate
Responsibility:
Owner
Random End Gapping
Problem:
Improper installation
Subfloor movement
Solutions:
You will need to have your flooring repaired
Responsibility:
Installer