Check that the delivery of the T&G product has not been damaged in transit and ensure there is no water damage or other defects.

Store the product in a dry and secure area.

Condition the timber by strip stacking in the room or area that it will be installed. Strip stacking allows airflow between each row of boards and enables the T&G product to equalise at the ambient moisture content of the room.

Unless specified otherwise, most T&G products are supplied with a kiln dried moisture content ranging from 10 – 14% averaging 12% MC. Ambient temperatures can vary quite significantly between summer and winter, hence strip stacking in a dry and naturally heated area will minimise this variation. If product is to be installed in an air-conditioned building then run the air-con at a temperature that will be used in the future.

Sealing of T&G products:

After conditioning the T&G products as recommended for a few days, then all solid timber T&G floorings or wall linings must have a diluted sanding sealer applied PRIOR TO INSTALLATION. This should be applied all over the board – tongue, groove, face and back of each board.

Applying the sealer prior to installation ensures the conditioned T&G product moisture content is locked in and consistent at the time of installation.

Applying sealer also ensures that when the T&G product is polyurethaned, that the polyurethane does not act as a glue between the tongue and groove, which can result in splitting along this joint, as the T&G naturally settles and conditions to its new environment.

Protection and Maintenance:

Timber is a natural living material which will move in response to changes levels of ultra violet light or abnormal heat and temperature. T&G products individual boards to expand and contract in such situations but not at extreme

Minimise direct and prolonged levels of UV light – draw blinds and canopies around French doors and large glass areas for long term protection.

Ensure there is a consistent level of ventilation or airflow throughout the buildings are not occupied for prolonged periods.

Care and preparation at the pre-installation stage will ensure a high quality common sense protection and maintenance will ensure your investment future.

It is essential that these recommendations are followed. Thank you!