How should I fix down solid wood floors?
There are many issues to consider when specifying the fixing of solid timber flooring and modern multi-layered, engineered boards and these relate mainly to the type and frequency of fixing and the nature of the substrate.
Flooring may be fixed using nails, screws or adhesives and guidance for using these methods is given in BS 8201. However, TRADA always recommends that the flooring manufacturer's guidance is sought and followed. If proprietary sub-floor systems are included in the construction of the floor, then the manufacturer's recommendations regarding spacing of the components should also be followed.
Further information can be found in the publications listed below.
TRADA also provides a range of services for building designers, product manufacters and end users of timber flooring, including the design, specification or inspections of timber flooring, for more information please follow this link
Decorative Timber Flooring.
Outlines the types of decorative flooring available ie solid timber and multi-layer or engineered types. It discusses the timber properties required, suitable species and the all-important considerations of environmental conditions and moisture content. Finally, floor construction, laying and finishing seals are considered.
Sealing timber floors: A best practice guide
Deals with seal types and the selection, floor preparation, schedule specification and application of seals. Identifies common faults and their prevention. Covers polishing and maintenance and measures which can be adopted to avoid wear. Refurbishment and stripping of existing floors is also covered.
Seals for timber floors: A specification guide
Provides objective guidance on commercially available seals. Thirty products were subjected to a programme of laboratory tests, each dealing with a different performance criterion. A list of 'top ten' products for each of the tests allows users to select products that best meet the demands created by particular end-use environments. Describes the test methods used and explains how to use the guide through worked examples.
