Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsnatural finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 623 Model #HD13002A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 623 Model #HD13002A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsnatural finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointscarbonized finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 622 Model #HD13003A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 622 Model #HD13003A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointscarbonized finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 21.87 sq. ft.
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsdark honey finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 620 Model #HD13004A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 21.87 sq. ft.
655 620 Model #HD13004A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsdark honey finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointstiger finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 619Model #HD13005A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 619Model #HD13005A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointstiger finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsmahogany finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 615 Model #HD13006A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 615 Model #HD13006A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsmahogany finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 616 Model #HD13007A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsjava finish
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 616 Model #HD13007A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointsjava finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
Products DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointswild tiger finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 614Model #HD13008A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 614 Model #HD13008A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Products DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointswild tiger finish
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointscherry finish
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
655 618 Model #HD13009A
WARNING: CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: This product can create wood dust and emit formaldehyde of which are known to the State of California to cause cancer.
CAUTION: ASBESTOS IN EXISTING FLOOR: Home Decorators Collections product does not contain asbestos. Existing installed resilient flooring and asphaltic adhesive may contain asbestos fillers or crystalline silica. Do not sand, dry sweep, dry scrape, drill, saw, bead-blast, or mechanically chip or pulverize existing resilient flooring, backing, lining felt, asphaltic “cutback” adhesive or other adhesive. See “Recommended Work Practices for Removal of Resilient Floor Coverings” (rfci.com) for detailed information and instructions on removing all resilient covering structures.
CAUTION: WOOD DUST: Sawing, sanding and machining this product can produce wood dust. It can cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation. Avoid prolonged exposure to wood dust. Power tools should be equipped with a dust collector. If possible, perform wood dust generating activities outdoors. If high dust levels are encountered, use an appropriate NIOSH-designated dust mask.
Safety and Health PrecautionsPower tools can be dangerous. Operate in strict accordance to manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety precautions. Unsafe and improper use can cause serious injuries. Avoid inhalation and exposures to wood dust by mechanical means and by wearing personal protective equipment. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes NIOSH or OSHA approve dust masks, safety goggles and work gloves.
WarrantyThis flooring product comes with a manufacturer Limited Wear Warranty. The warranty applies to the original purchaser of the flooring. It warrants the original purchaser that the finish surface will not wear through for the duration of the stated warranty from the date of purchase. Contact our Customer Service Team at 800-986-3460 to request a written copy which provides detailed terms of coverage and limitations.
Pre-Installation
Owner/Installer respOnsIbIlItyThe owner is advised to be at home during the installation for consultation/direction. The owner and installer should discuss installation and layout to maximize satisfaction. If this is not possible, consultation should be done prior to installation. Installers should be familiar with installation guidelines from National Wood Flooring Association (woodfloors.org). The owner/installer assumes all responsibility for product quality of completed installation.
PERFORM PRE-INSTALL INSPECTION. FOR CLAIMS PURPOSES, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO OPEN UP TO 4 BOXES FOR PRODUCT INSPECTION. DO NOT OPEN ALL THE BOXES. OPENING ALL THE BOXES CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE PRODUCT. INSPECT ALL THE PLANKS IN THESE 4 BOXES CAREFULLY. EXAMINE FLOORING FOR COLOR, FINISH AND QUALITY. IF YOU DISCOVER THAT PRODUCTS ARE DEFECTIVE, OR IF MATERIAL IS QUESTIONABLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE RETAILER. IF YOU ARE SATISFIED, PROCEED WITH INSTALLATION.
Prior to installation, rack up planks from several boxes to ensure uniform distribution of colors, shades and characters in the installed flooring. Planks having similar widths should be placed together in the same row to minimize gaps between boards.
Bamboo floors are natural products containing natural variations in color, tone, grain, streaks, nodal marks and other characteristics found from plank to plank. They are normal and it does not mean the product is defective.
Purchase flooring to be installed in one large area at the same time. Product purchased at a later time than the first purchase may vary beyond your expectations.
Accessories, trims and moldings are manufactured to coordinate with the varied appearances of the floor planks. Any exact matches are coincidental. Non-matching accessories are not defective products.
This product is manufactured according to strict quality standards. In the event that defects are discovered in the field, the industry standards permit a defect tolerance not to exceed 5%. Order an additional 5% extra for cutting wastage and grading allowances (10% for diagonal installations).
During installation, inspect the planks continuously. Defects that can be seen from a standing position should be cut off or held out. Installing defective planks implies acceptance.
Squeaking and clicking noises are the result of interactions among flooring, joists and subfloors when they move. Limiting the movements of the flooring system usually eliminates most of these noises. Sometimes, it is impossible to eliminate them completely and minor squeaking or clicking noises are to be accepted as normal flooring phenomenon.
Minor scratches can generally be repaired with the use of putty, stain or filler. It is an industry standard practice of flooring installation and it should be accepted as normal by the home owner.
To assure the warranty is not inadvertently voided, before proceeding with any activity that is not covered in this manual, please contact our Customer Support Team at 800-986-3460.
JOb sIte COndItIOnPrior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time of installation, the job site conditions including subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect the floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
stOrage and COndItIOnsDo not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions. For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring with care and store within the environmentally controlled site in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on a concrete slab should be elevated at least four in. to allow air circulation under cartons.
exIstIng HOmeAn existing home should have a consistent room temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55%. Continual deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of flooring, especially bamboo. When using a heater during winter months, humidity may be much lower than the acceptable range. A humidifier is recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring due to low humidity levels. During the warmer months, maintain humidity levels using an air conditioner, dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
new COnstruCtIOn Or remOdelAll work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at least five days preceding installation and should be maintained during and after installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during and after installation, a temporary heating and/or dehumidification system that simulates normal living (occupied) conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully operational. Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 35%-55% which should be maintained continuously thereafter.
basements and Crawl spaCesConcrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and underside of joists should be no less than 18 in. and the perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
COnCrete subflOOr requIrements Concrete subfloors must:
□ Have minimum rated strength of 3000 psi. □ Be level to within 1/8 in. in a 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in a 10 ft. span; no bumps or low spots. High spots can be removed by grinding; depressions can be filled with patching compound formulated for use in floor installation.
□ Be clean; no construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; if necessary, scrape and sweep away before the installation; no protrusions of nails, debris, metals should remain.
□ New concrete slab must cure for at least 60 days. It must have a minimum 10 mil polyethylene sheet between the ground and the concrete.
□ Be free from moisture related conditions which can damage the installed flooring.COnCrete mOIsture
Test all concrete subfloors for moisture content and document the results. Visual checks are not reliable.
Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near walls containing plumbing, near foundation walls and in the center of the room. Minimum sample size is 3 samples per 1000 sq. ft. of area and one test for every additional 1000 sq. ft. thereafter.
Moisture content should meet one of the following criteria:
□ 4.5% when tested using Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter. □ Less than 3 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. per 24 hours when using Calcium Chloride test (ASTM F 1869). □ 75% when using Relative Humidity Testing (ASTM F-2170).
NOTE: Concrete moisture content may be acceptable the time of the test. These tests do not guarantee a perpetual “dry” concrete slab. The concrete slab moisture content can vary at other times of the year. We are not responsible for moisture-related damage to installed flooring.
lIgHt weIgHt COnCreteLight weight concrete is concrete with a rated strength that is less than 3000 psi. Perform a quick check by drawing a nail across the top; if it leaves an indentation, it is probably light concrete.
For glue-down applications, the concrete must possess shear strength greater than the glue. If concrete rated psi is unknown, contact the adhesive manufacturer for guidance.
wOOd subflOOr requIrementsThe subfloor must be clean; no presence of construction debris, soil, mud and any other objects on or adhering to the floor; no protrusions of nails, debris, or metals should remain. If necessary, scrape and sweep the subfloor before the installation.
The subfloor must be structurally sound and stable; no movements or squeaks; no loose panels or loose nails; no signs of ply de-lamination or other damages. Repair all shortcomings before installation.
The subfloor must be flat and at least 3/4 in. thick; no visible bumps or low spots; the subfloor should be flat to within 1/8 in. in 6 ft. span or 3/16 in. in 10 ft.. Test for moisture using a reliable moisture meter. Perform tests at locations around exterior doorways, near foundation walls, near walls containing plumbing lines and in the center of the room. Measure 20 locations per 1000 sq. ft.. Moisture content of the subfloor should be less than 12%. Moisture content difference between the subfloor and flooring should be 2% or less.
plywOOd Or OrIented strand bOard (Osb) speCIfICatIOnsOn truss/joist spacing of 16 in. (406 mm) O/C or less, the industry standard for single-panel subflooring is a minimum 5/8 in. (19/32 in., 15.1 mm) CD Exposure 1 plywood subfloor panels (CD Exposure 1) or 23/32 in. OSB Exposure 1 subfloor panels, 4 ft. x 8 ft. sheets. Expansion gap between panels should be 1/8 in. (3 mm). If panels are not tongued and grooved and there is not sufficient spacing or is inadequate, cut in the required spacing with a circular saw. Do not cut in expansion space on tongue and groove panels.
partICle bOard Or fIber bOard Only for floating installation.
exIstIng flOOrsInstallation over existing floor requires the installer to consider potential issues related to moisture damage, adhesive failure and fastener failure. Contact the adhesive and fastener manufacturers respectively for their specific instructions, recommendations and requirements.
Acceptable floor coverings include: solid hardwood, linoleum, terrazzo, ceramic tile and other “moisture sealing floors.”
Unacceptable floor coverings include: carpet, needle punch felt, edge glued linoleum and other “moisture absorbing flooring.”
radIant Heated subflOOrThis product can be installed over a radiant heated subfloor. Operating surface temperature must be less than 84°F. Decrease temperature before installation. Increase temperature gradually after installation. Glue down installation may require additional installation requirements. Contact the glue manufacturer for specific recommendations. Contact the heater manufacturer for specific installation instructions.
mOIsture barrIer and mOIsture retarderCOnCrete subflOOr
For floating installation, use 6 mil polyethylene film or other means with equivalent permeability. Overlap the edge seams and tape it together. Extend moisture barrier up to the wall about 1 in. high.
For direct glue installation, use a moisture barrier if moisture levels exceed the requirement (see Concrete Moisture section).
wOOd subflOOrUse asphalt-saturated kraft paper or #15 or #30 felt that meets ASTM Standard D4869 or UU-B-790, Grade D. Overlap along the edge seams 2 in.- 4 in. wide. This retards moisture movement from below. Extend the moisture retarder to about 1 in. from the walls. Secure to the subfloor as necessary.
sOund COntrOl underlaymentCheck with the sound control manufacturer for application guidelines. Generally, the less compressive underlayment is preferred.
expansIOn gapA required gap width of 3/8 in. is required around the perimeter of the floor and between the floor and all vertical obstructions. Do not place permanently mounted structures such as kitchen counters/cabinets on the installed floor.
transItIOn mOldIngFloating installation, transition T-molding is required in the following cases: floor spanning greater than 35 ft. in length or width; floor areas interrupted by wall sections extending out of the wall; floor areas which are not rectangular; wall openings-with or without doors; L shaped rooms or otherwise not rectangular rooms requires T-molding to split it into rectangular sections.
adHesIveUse premium flooring adhesive which is non-water based, formulated for engineered bamboo flooring installation. The preferred type is moisture cure urethane floor glue.
tOOls and materIals basICsTape measure • Moisture meter (wood, concrete or both) • Chalk line & chalk • Hammer • Electric power saw • Carbide tipped saw blade for fine cut • NIOSH-designated dust mask • Hand saw or jamb saw • Eye protection • Straight edge or Spacers • Pry Bar • Mallet • Broom • Color matched wood putty • Tapping block • Pull bar
Additional Supplies for Glue-Down Method: Flooring adhesive • Trowels • Adhesive remover for selected adhesive • Clean rags • Weight roller • Painters tape
bOnd faIlureBond failure is NOT a flooring product defect. Most installation failures, including bond failure, result from jobsite moisture.
Do not unpack or deliver flooring to the jobsite until moisture problems are corrected. Read adhesive manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Certain wood flooring adhesives may have special requirements and limitations of use. Some existing floors may not be acceptable. Not following the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations can lead to installation failure or product damage and will void your warranty.
glue spOts On faCe Of fInIsHed flOOrAdhesive can damage the floor’s finish, especially when it has dried. It is extremely important to take precautionary steps NOT to leave finger prints or footprint marks on the face of the board. Preventive actions include wearing gloves when spreading glue and discarding the glove when finished. Use clean gloves before placing the floor planks in the adhesive layer. If glue comes in contact with the face of the board, remove immediately with the adhesive remover recommended by the adhesive manufacturer. Use clean towels, changing frequently to prevent haze and adhesive residue. If the spot removal damages the appearance of the boards, replace the board.
Helpful Pointers
general tIps □ Make sure your work area is well lit. Good visibility ensures that color is consistent and that visually defective planks are detected and removed. □ The minimum length of the first and last plank is 12 in.. If the last plank will be less than 12 in., adjust the length of the first plank. The remainder of the last plank can be used as a starter board on the following rows. □ Using a shorter piece at undercut door jams will help when fitting flooring in place.
glue-dOwn InstallatIOn tIps □ ALWAYS REFER TO THE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FLOORING ADHESIVE LABEL. The information given here is for typical installations. Adjust it according to adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. □ Dry-lay means the glue has to set before placing floor planks in it. Wet-lay means the glue does not need to set before placing flooring on it. □ Use a trowel design specified by the adhesive manufacturer. □ Continuously check the transfer of adhesive THROUGHOUT the installation process. If the adhesive no longer transfers to the back of the flooring material, it must be removed and new adhesive applied. □ Work your way out of the room. □ After the installation is completed, keep the floor free from daily foot traffic for a minimum of 24 hours to allow adhesive to properly cure.
CuttIng tHe last rOw tO wIdtH □ Most often the entire length of the last row will need to be cut so that it is narrow enough to fit the remaining space. □ Measure the distance between the floor face edge (exclude the tongue) to the wall. Subtract 3/8 in. from this measurement for expansion gap. Draw a line. Cut through the line. Discard the excess piece. Proceed with the installation
Preparing for Installation □ Ensure subfloors are clean. □ Understand the locking part of the flooring plank. The tongue is the thinner extension coming out of the side of the planks. The groove is the wider extension coming out of the other side of the floor plank. The ends do not have tongue and groove. There is an upper drop-lock end on one side and a lower-drop lock end on the other side.
□ Lay out several cartons. Randomly rack planks to ensure good color and shade mixture and end joint spacing. Minimum end stagger is 6 in.. Inspect plank quality and grading.
□ Lay out trim moldings in advance and find planks whose shade closely matches. Set these aside for future use.
□ Remove the existing base, shoe molding or threshold carefully. They can be used to cover the ½ in. expansion gap left around the edge of the room. Undercut doors and casings using a handsaw laid flat on a piece of scrap flooring.
□ Install the underlayment (if used) parallel to the flooring according to the underlayment manufacture instruction. Any overlap (top) should be on the same side as the groove of the flooring so that the floor planks will slide smoothly into place. Tape all seams. Secure the underlayment material as necessary to prevent excessive movement.
Floating Installation
1 INSTALLING THE FIRST ROWa. When possible, begin installation from the straightest wall.
If possible, install the floor perpendicular to the floor joists.b. Cut off the tongue from the first row planks.c. Allow a 3/8 in. expansion gap between the plank and the
walls. Use spacers or board.d. Place the first plank with the groove sides facing away
from the walls.e. Place the upper drop-lock end of the second plank on the
lower drop-lock end of the first plank. The ends do not click lock. Maintain a straight edge along the rows.
f. Continue placing the succeeding planks to complete the row until you come to the last plank.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
Grade LevelsAbove Grade / On Grade
Below Grade
HOmedepOt.cOm/HOmedecOrAtOrs
please contact 1-800-986-3460 for further assistance.
Installation MethodFloating
Full Spread GlueCovers 25.75 sq. ft.
655 618Model #HD13009A
Warranty35-Year Residential10-Year Commercial
Floating Installation (continued)
2 INSTALLING THE SECOND AND REMAINING ROWSa. Cut off a section of the first plank lengthwise to ensure 6 in. joints staggering.b. Hold the plank with the tongue facing the previous row. Keep it at about a 30° angle.c. Insert the tongue into the groove.d. Make sure the tongue is snuggly and securely engaged in the groove by exerting a
constant pressure in the direction of the groove.e. Maintain the pressure while pressing the plank flat to lock the edge joints.f. If there is a slight along the edge joints, fix it with the help of a tapping block and a
plastic mallet. Use caution to prevent impact damage.
3 INSTALLING THE LAST ROWUse the pull bar to draw the last row to fit tightly to the previous row (3a).
Glue Down Installation
IMPORTANT: ANY EXCESS GLUE WHICH SEEPS ONTO THE SURFACE OF THE FLOOR MUST BE REMOVED IMMEDIATELY WITH ADHESIVE REMOVER.
The steps used in the glue down method are very similar to the floating installation method. The only difference is the application of the glue to the subfloor prior to installation. For more detailed instructions, see the floating installation section.
1 SETTING UP 3 INSTALLING THE FIRST TWO ROWSa. Cut off the tongue from the long edge of the boards
for the first rows.b. Ensure an expansion gap by marking off a starting
line 3/8 in. away from the starting wall. Use a board or spacers if available during installation.
2 SPREADING THE GLUEa. Spread the glue from the starting line out in the
direction of the center of the room, the width of two planks. Or spread only enough glue to install what can be set within 45 minutes (15 minutes of OPEN TIME and an additional 30 minutes for actual installation. Usually about two rows width coverage). Different manufacturers may require different open and set times.
b. Repeat with the next two rows, etc.
3/8 in.
3/8 in.
a. Install the first row of starter planks.b. The last plank of the first row may have to be
cut to size. Discard remainder because the tongue has been removed.
c. Install the second row. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
d. Be attentive to staggering the ends of the boards correctly in adjacent rows to avoid clustering end joints.
e. Any glue that comes in contact with the face of the board should be removed immediately using adhesive remover formulated for the glue being used. Follow adhesive manufacturer’s instructions on adhesive removal.
3/8 in.
4 INSTALLING THE REMAINING ROWS
3/8 in.
a. Spread another section of glue. Never spread more that can be covered before the adhesive is set. If adhesive is set and will not transfer to the back of the plank, scrape off the adhesive and apply fresh adhesive.
b. Continue to install the next rows. Make sure there is a random staggering at the end joints of at least 6 in. apart.
c. Do not forget the 3/8 in. space for expansion between the floor and the walls.d. Repeat the process for additional rows.e. Make sure there is 100% contact between the wood floor and the adhesive.
Completing the Installation □ Clean the floor. □ Use matching putty where necessary. □ Install or reinstall all wall trim pieces. Nail them through the wall, but not to the subfloor to avoid restricting the expansion gap. □ Install transition trim pieces. Nail them to the subfloor, not the flooring. □ At doorways, transitions should be used to protect the edges of the floor and to provide a decorative transition from one floor type to another. □ If the floor is to be covered, use a breathable material such as cardboard. Do not cover with plastic.
T-Molding: Used to create a transition between floor coverings of similar heights or to cover an expansion gap.
T-MOULDING
FLOORING FLOORING
Stair Nose: Used in conjunction with flooring installed on stair steps or finished edges of a higher level floor like in a sunken living room.
FLOORING STAIR NOSE
RISERSTAIR TREAD
Carpet Reducer (also called Baby Threshold or End Cap): Used to transition floor coverings of differing heights. This reducer strip is also commonly used to border a fireplace, sliding glass door and other exterior door jambs.
CARPET REDUCER
FLOORING CARPET
Hard Surface Reducer: Used to transition to another hard surface flooring of different heights such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.
HARD SURFACEREDUCER
RESILIENTFLOORFLOORING
Wall Base: Used to give a finished look at the base of the walls. It can be used with or without Quarter Round.
FLOORING
WALL BASEWA
LL
Quarter Round: Used to cover the expansion space between the wall base and your flooring. It can also be used to make smooth transitions between the floor and cabinetry. It can be used with or without wall base molding.
FLOORING
QUARTER ROUNDWA
LL
Care and MaintenancedaIly maIntenanCe
□ Sweep, dust, mop, or vacuum your floor regularly to remove any particles that could cause abrasion or scratch your floor.
CAUTION: Vacuums with a beater bar or power rotary brush head can damage a floor and should never be used.
□ Use a damp mop to remove spots and soil. Apply appropriate cleaning solution to the cleaning cloth / mop. Do NOT apply directly to the floor.
□ For lightly soiled area, clean with distilled water.
□ For moderately soiled areas, use a mild solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and distilled water. Dilute the mixture by mixing one part alcohol and 2 parts distilled water. For tougher spots, use a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. For extreme cases, a solution of nail polish remover and distilled water can be used.
□ HINT: For best results, clean the floor in the same direction of the planks. When the cleaning cloth/mop becomes soiled, rinse or replace it with a clean one. Following up with a clean, dry cloth will remove residual streak marks and spots.
□ Do NOT leave any amount of liquids (water, juice, soft drinks, spills, etc.) on the floor. Clean any wet spots immediately.
□ Do NOT use a steam cleaner.
□ Do NOT use a wet mop or douse the floor with water or liquid cleaners. Liquid can seep between the cracks and cause moisture damage.
□ Do NOT use any cleaning agents containing wax, oil or polish. Left over residue will form a dull film.
□ Do NOT use steel wool or scouring powder which will scratch the floor.
branded Or Off-tHe-sHelf flOOr Care prOduCtsIf none of the above are effective and you choose to use a store bought product, test the product in a non-conspicuous area (i.e., closet, corner, or scrap pieces) for potential adverse side effects.
preventatIve maIntenanCe □ Protect your floor when using a dolly for moving furniture or appliances. Protective sheets and/or plywood may be needed. Never slide or roll heavy furniture or appliances across the floor.
□ Place protective pads beneath furniture legs and other heavy objects.
□ Avoid excessive exposure to water from being tracked in during periods of inclement weather.
□ Minimize abrasive material and dirt by placing mats on both sides of exterior doors and by using area rugs in high-traffic areas
□ Rearrange furniture and rugs periodically to avoid uneven color and shade changes from light exposure.
□ Use protective mats beneath rolling chairs and keep furniture casters clean.
□ Keep pets’ nails trimmed.
□ Remove shoes with cleats, spikes or exceptionally pointy heels before walking on the floor.
ClImate maIntenanCe □ Care should be taken to control humidity levels within the 35% - 55% range. Flooring, especially hardwood and bamboo, dimensions will be affected by varying levels of humidity.
□ dry Climates: A humidifier is recommended to maintain humidity levels. Wood stoves and electric heat tend to create very dry conditions during the winter months this also will cause shrinkage in flooring.
□ Humid, wet Climates: By using an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier proper humidity levels can be maintained to prevent excessive expansion due to high moisture content.
flOOr repaIr □ Very light and small surface scratches can be repaired with a staining “touch up” pen of the appropriate color.
□ Slightly deeper scratches can be repaired by means of colored putty and or stains. Fill the scratches with the putty. Level with putty knife. Wipe off excess putty.
□ Very deep scratches may require the replacement of the planks.
Installation InstructionsEngineered Bamboo HDF Flooring
For assistance, call: 1-800-986-3460Homedepot.com/homedecorators
Product DescriptionEngineered Bamboo HDF
Click-Lock jointscherry finish
Page 1 of 5
Elastilon Strong Self Adhesive Installation system
For Bamboo Flooring
Elastilon Model#: Elastilonstrong10m (EST310) / EST325 Home Depot
Use with Horizontal, Vertical and Strand Woven Bamboo floors
Works will all T&G and Click Lock systems
Replaces direct glue, nail, staple or edge-glue floating installations
Installs over any surface including directly over concrete
Strengthens click bamboo floor installations while reducing potential gapping and board displacement.
Check elastilonUSA.com for a copy of our most recent installation instructions before you begin your installation
Preparation
Please carefully review the instructions for both Elastilon and
your Home Depot Bamboo flooring before starting your
project. Be sure to inspect all flooring thoroughly before
installation to ensure that there are no visible defects. It is the
responsibility of the owner / installer to ensure that the
material, the environmental and the sub-floor conditions are
acceptable before the installation commences. Elastilon is
designed to be a free floating installation system, so do not
permanently affix or attach to the subfloor or install under
permanent cabinetry.
Acclimation Acclimation is the process of adjusting (conditioning) the
moisture content of bamboo flooring to the environment in
which it is expected to be installed. The bamboo flooring is fully
acclimated when its moisture content and dimensions (width
and length) are stable. For example, the averaged dimensions
and moisture content remain constant for 3 consecutive days.
Bamboo flooring must acclimate for as long as necessary to
reach fully acclimated stage. Acclimation time varies depending
on geographical area, interior climate control and time of the
year. With open carton and open plastic wrap minimum
acclimation time is 72 hours. In open box, open plastic wrap.
Elevate planks from the floor by placing them on 2"X 2" lumber
or equivalence. Place spacers (3/4" to 1" sticks) between each
layer or cross stack the layers for maximum exposure to
ambient conditions. Acclimation temperature range is 60°F-
80°F and relative humidity (RH) of 40%-60%. Conditions in
which the floor was acclimated should be maintained
continuously thereafter. It is recommended to document as
much acclimation information as possible. (date, pre and post
install relative humidity, temperature, subfloor type, subfloor
moisture content, pre and post install bamboo moisture
content, acclimation period, pre and post install width and
length of boards) For complete details on wood floors and the
environment, please refer to the NWFA publication No. A100 -
Water and Wood.
Jobsite preparation is necessary for a proper installation. Be
sure to follow the minimum jobsite recommendations listed in
your Bamboo flooring instructions.
Job Site Condition
Prior to installation, the installer must ensure that at the time
of installation, the job site conditions including
subfloor/substrate, ambient temperature and relative
humidity, and all impacting variables will not negatively affect
floor. The manufacturer will decline responsibility for damages
associated with improper installation or poor site conditions.
Storage and Conditions
Do not store flooring in uncontrolled environmental conditions.
For example, garages and exterior patios are not acceptable
areas to store flooring. Handle and unload bamboo flooring
with care and store within the environmentally controlled site
in which it is expected to perform. Flooring stored on concrete
slab should be elevated at least four inches to allow air
circulation under cartons.
Existing Home
Existing home should have a consistent room temperature of
60°F-80°F and relative humidity of 40%-60%. Continual
deviation from these conditions will affect the dimensions of
flooring, especially bamboo. During heating season, humidity
may be much lower than the acceptable range. Care must be
taken with wood stoves and electric heat which tend to create
very dry conditions. During the heating season, a humidifier is
recommended to prevent excess shrinkage in bamboo flooring
due to low humidity levels. During the non-heating season,
humidity levels can be maintained by using an air conditioner,
dehumidifier, or by turning on your heating system periodically.
New Construction or Remodel All work involving water, such as pouring basement concrete
floors, drywall and plasterwork, plumbing, etc. must be
completed well in advance of the floor delivery. Ensure that the
building is enclosed. Where building codes allow, permanent
Page 2 of 5
heating and/or air conditioning systems should be operating at
least five days preceding installation to promote proper
acclimation and should be maintained during and after
installation. If it is not possible for the permanent heating
and/or air conditioning system to be operating before, during
and after installation, a temporary heating and/or
dehumidification system that simulate normal living (occupied)
conditions can enable the installation to proceed until the
permanent heating and/or air conditioning system is fully
operational.
Your job site should have a consistent temperature of 60°F-
80°F and relative humidity of 40%-60% which should be
maintained continuously thereafter.
Basements and Crawl Spaces
Concrete slab or ground must be dry. The ground in the crawl
spaces must be completely covered using 6 mil black
polyethylene. Crawl space clearance between the earth and
underside of joists should be no less than 18 inches and the
perimeter vent area should be equal to 1.5% of the total square
footage of the crawl space or as mandated by code.
Subfloor Preparation
All sub-floors must be prepared for installation in accordance
with normal subfloor preparation procedures and accepted
tolerances within the wood flooring industry. Check the sub-
floor to see if it specifically meets the following requirements:
Dry - Concrete slabs must be at least 60 days old and the
moisture content cannot exceed 3lbs./1000 sf under a Calcium
Chloride test. The moisture content of the concrete floor must
not exceed 3.9% with use of a Tramax Concrete Moisture
Encounter Meter. Also the RH levels in the Concrete using in-
situ Probes (ASTM F207-02) should not exceed 75%. If the
moisture level of the concrete subfloor cannot be determined
or if levels exceed the desired parameters then the use of a 6
mil polyethylene film vapor barrier (perm rating of .13 or less)
is mandatory. Wood sub-floors must not exceed 13% moisture
content and the moisture content difference between the sub-
floor and the flooring material must not exceed 4%.
Flat - Floor must be even with a maximum tolerance between
1/8” over 6 ft or 3/16” in a 10 ft radius. (2mm per 2.5 meters)
Clean and structurally sound - Free of debris and any other
loose material. Wood sub-floors must be stable and securely
fastened to supporting joists. Be sure to nail or screw any areas
that are loose or squeak. Sand, scrap, or grind any raised edges
and level all low spots with the appropriate leveling compound
(Concrete floors included) so that maximum tolerances are
met.
Radiant Heat – Use of an approved wood flooring water or
electrical radiant sub floor heating system is approved when
installed either within or above the concrete / wood sub-floor.
The heating system should be run 3 to 4 days prior to the
installation at a reduced temperature of 64F (18c). Two days
after the installation is complete, the temperature of the
system may be raised gradually over a one week period to its
desired operating temperature. Please note that the surface
temperature of flooring should never exceed 81F (27C). Adding
humidification may be necessary to maintain humidity levels at
required levels. Always follow the flooring manufacturers’
recommendations when it comes to radiant heat.
Installation
Elastilon can be used over any structurally sound sub-floor or
just about any existing flooring material. Lay it right over any
wood, concrete, vinyl tile or sheet, ceramic, or any other FLAT
stable material. Do not install over any type of carpeting.
Begin by deciding the best layout of the floor for the room. It is
best to start along the longest wall in the room. Remember that
this is a free floating floor and an expansion space at least 5/8”
(16 mm) must be maintained around all walls and stationary
objects. In many cases it may be possible to undercut the
Sheetrock (drywall) to allow for additional expansion room.
Expansion joints will also need to be installed in doorways, long
hallways, and larger areas more than 33 ft (10m) in length
following the direction of the small width (eg. 3 ½” width) of
the floor boards. Additional Expansion joints are not necessary
in the direction of the long length of the floor boards (and
expanses longer than 33 ft (10m) are permitted because a
small amount of white carpenters glue (PVA) needs to be
applied to all adjoining ends joints. (small ends of boards
only)
Where necessary cut the door casings to allow the bamboo to
slide underneath. Baseboards should never be fastened directly
to the floor itself and may need to be raised to allow the
flooring to slide underneath. If not raised, a small molding can
be added to conceal the expansion gap after the installation is
complete.
Measure the room to determine the number of rows of flooring
needed. If the last row is narrower than 1 ½” (4 cm) in width
then reduce the starting board accordingly. When installing the
flooring please be sure to follow the manufacturer’s
recommendations for board placement.
Over all concrete applications especially below grade, always
install an approved 6 mil polyethylene film vapor barrier before
laying the Elastilon. For concrete floors that are on-grade or
above-grade, if the moisture parameters are higher than the
required levels or the moisture levels cannot be determined, a
6-mil polyethylene film vapor barrier must be installed. All
joints of the vapor barrier need to be overlapped by at least 8”
(20cm) and sealed with a moisture resistant tape. Allow the
vapor barrier to run up the walls 3-4” (8-9cm). The excess can
be trimmed once the installation is complete.
Roll out the Elastilon (white protective film / smooth side up)
perpendicular ( at right angle ) to the direction of the
flooring. The rolls should be tight side by side with no overlap.
Be sure to cover the entire work area with Elastilon. Do not
tape the long edge of the Elastilon rolls together. They must be
free to move. The short end (3ft / 1m side) of the Elastilon roll
can be taped together to maintain alignment.
There are several methods of starting your installation.
Starter strip method: The first method involves creating a
folded over flap of protective film. When you roll out the
Elastilon you will need to add a little extra product (2 ½ x width
of boards) running up the wall where you’re going to start your
project. Peel back the white vinyl protective film the width of 2
Page 3 of 5
½ planks and cut off the Elastilon material below it (leaving the
white protective film folded over). This protective film is the
starter strip which now should be positioned up against the
wall where you intend to start laying the floor. (see illustrations
below) The extra Elastilon that was cut off can be used at a
later point in the installation or on a future installation. Simply
place a leftover piece of the white protective foil over the
exposed adhesive until it is ready to be used.
Direct placement method: The second method creates the
starter flap as you start installing the first two rows. Cover the
entire floor with Elastilon (wall to wall). Along the starting wall
peel back the protective film (approximately 2 ½ times the
width of your first board) to expose the adhesive layer of
Elastilon. Set your first row of boards across the full length of
the starting wall. Do not apply downward pressure on the
boards until you are certain that this row is straight and true.
As long as you do not put pressure on the on the boards they
can be readjusted. Once you are sure that the row is straight
and you have maintained the necessary expansion gap, you can
press down on this row.
Return the protective film to within ½” (12mm) from the end of
this first installed row of flooring and begin placing your second
row of bamboo over the developing flap of protective film. This
new larger starter strip can be sued to continue the installation.
Protective film method : This method uses any protective film
that may be available. Use the white vinyl protective film that
was removed from the installation. With the Elastilon rolled
out, peel and fold back the white vinyl protective film the width
of 2 ½ planks along the wall you will be starting at. (Do not cut
the Elastilon or the film) The adhesive layer will be exposed.
Fold a piece of the extra white vinyl protective film in half and
place it onto the exposed adhesive layer with the crease facing
the starting wall. Be sure that this temporary folded strip
extends well onto the original peeled back section. This
temporary fold is now the starter strip where you will begin to
build your floor.
Installing your Bamboo flooring has
never been easier!
Remember, the flooring needs to be perpendicular (at right
angles) to the rolled out Elastilon with the tongue edge facing
out from the wall. (Boards can be installed in either direction if
desired)
Place an expansion spacer of at least 5/8” (16 mm) at the start
of the row and remember to maintain this gap on all other
stationary walls and objects
With the white protective film starter strip now folded back
over the Elastilon, begin assembling the next rows of flooring
over this folded strip from side wall to side wall. The end joints
should be staggered by the wood manufacturers’
recommendations and/or industry recommendations. A small
amount of white carpenters glue (PVA) needs to be applied to
all adjoining ends joints (small butt joint). Be sure to clean any
glue residue before it dries.
Ensure that the floor boards are fitted together tightly and
straight. When the row is in position, apply forward pressure
to the boards so that the joint between the rows remain
seamless, and then simply pull the white protective starter strip
out from under the board to the edge of the flooring being
careful not to expose the adhesive face. If this occurs, just tuck
the protective foil back under the edge of the already installed
floor board. Finally, apply pressure to the top of the flooring to
secure it firmly to the Elastilon. Do not use mechanical
fastening systems such as straps to force boards together. It is
permissible to use blue painters tape to keep board alignment
as you continue to build the floor on the release film.
It is recommended that you confirm with a chalk or laser line
how straight your installed floor is. The floor can still be
adjusted so that it is square to the room. To remove a board,
simply tuck the protective film back under the board and pry it
up slowly until it releases from the adhesive surface. You can
now reinstall or replace the remove board.
Please note that it is possible to remove an installed floor board
for only a brief period after it has been installed on Elastilon.
Once the adhesive has set (approximately 20 minutes) the only
means to remove a board is to cut out the piece in question
and replace it by gluing the four sides of a new board back in
place. Be sure to place a piece of Elastilon underneath the new
board so as to ensure a level surface with the rest of the floor.
After the first few rows are installed cleanly, you can lay up
multiple rows of flooring. Be sure to tap each board tightly
together and to apply forward pressure as you pull the white
protective film from under the flooring. Continue to press down
on the installed floor as you lay the floor wall to wall.
Remember, you can use the excess bamboo flooring material
from the last end cut as the first board in the next row so as to
minimize waste. Also, as you pull off the protective film, it can
be rolled up or folded for future use.
To fasten a sliding door to the floor, mark the location of the
screw holes that are on the bottom rail and drill a hole that is
5/8” (16mm) wide. The bottom rail can then be fastened to the
sub-floor below. The rail width should cover the drilled holes.
Once the floor has been completely installed, remove the
expansion spacers and trim any excess poly to the floor level.
To cover the expansion gaps, install / reinstall all baseboards
and add appropriate moldings as needed.
If installing unfinished flooring, it can be sanded immediately
after installation. If it is a pre finished floor, furniture can be put
back as well. It is recommended to put weight on the floor (as
easy as walking over it), to help the floor adhere to the Elastilon
evenly
Clean the floor with the appropriate cleaner and attach felt
protection pads to the legs of the furniture. Always follow the
flooring manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines for proper care
of your floors.
Page 4 of 5
Special Notes:
The Elastilon Strong self adhesive installation system has been
engineered to work with many species of wood flooring. It is
important that the manufacturers / industry recommendations
are followed before, during and after the installation with
adherence to both room conditions and site preparation. The
Elastilon instructions must be closely followed as well.
Long Length boards- Remember as you build the floor on
the protective release strip, you will have the choice to change
or move boards so that the fit is to your liking. Elastilon can be
used with long length (8 feet/ 2.44m) as well as short length (12
inch/.30m) boards. Be sure to follow the manufacturers’
recommendations in terms of mixing floor boards to optimize
the look and strength of the floor. Once you are satisfied with
the presentation of the floor remove the protective release
strip and move on to the next section.
Flooring that isn’t perfect - It is also important to visually
inspect each piece of flooring before being installed. As with
any other type of installation method, Elastilon cannot
compensate for flooring that is severely bowed warped,
cupped or damaged prior to an installation. However, most
boards may be used if the defective section is cut and removed
with the remainder of the board used as a start or end piece,
used in a closet or in a low traffic or used in a concealed portion
of the room. Please note that the use of mechanical fastening
systems such as straps should never be used to force boards
together. Pressure from a rubber mallet and the use of blue
painters tape to keep boards tight is permissible. (Remember
never to strike the upper surface of the flooring as this could
lead to surface defects) During the racking ( building) of the
floor on top of the Elastilon protective release strip, flooring
that is not severely bowed can be installed as long as it can still
be inserted into the T&G of the boards surrounding it. This will
pull the board straight and allow full contact on the Elastilon
membrane. Be sure to place a small amount of carpenters glue
on all four sides of the affected board for a concern free
installation.
Floor Noise – Deflection may cause a minimal amount of
friction or “floor Noise”. Note that normal floor noise will vary
from one installation type to the next depending on the sub-
floor type, sub-floor deflection, species, milling and type of
flooring material, relative humidity and the amount of topside
pressure applied to the flooring material. For these reasons,
“floor Noise” is not considered a defect.
Working with thinner boards – Although these instructions are
common to the installation of Elastilon with all hardwood and
bamboo floors, particular attention must be given to the
following when installing thinner boards. (ie, ½”/12.5mm, 3/8”/
10mm and 5/16”/ 8mm)
• All end joints must be glued throughout the
installation.
• The floor must be flat to within .08 inch over 8 ft
(2mm over 2.5m). Uneven floors can lead to
increased floor deflection with narrower and/or
thinner floor board installations.
• Expansion room must be maintained around all walls
and obstacles.
Helpful Tips:
• Elastilon is designed as a floating installation system.
Do not permanently fix or attach product to the
subflooring or install under permanent cabinetry.
• Maintain the proper expansion around room
perimeter and around “fixed” cabinetry.
• Expansion joints will need to be installed in doorways,
long hallways, and larger areas more than 33 ft (10m)
following the direction of the width of the floor
boards. Additional expansion joints are not necessary
in the direction of the long length of the floor boards
(expanses longer than 33 ft (10m) are permitted).
Glue all end joints.
• Elastilon alone is not a moisture barrier and will
require a separate moisture barrier such as 6mil
sheet plastic to be placed over cement, ceramic tiles
or similar.
• Where necessary, undercut door jams or casings to
allow the flooring to float freely and to expand and
contract.
• To promote best board bonding into the adhesive top
layer, remove any trace of dust from the back of the
boards after making cuts.
• Be selective with board choice and do not install
miss-milled boards, imperfect boards, cupped,
twisted or bowed boards.
CHECK THE SUBFLOOR
• Subfloor flatness is very important. Subfloor deviation
must not exceed 1/8” in a 6’ radius or 3/16” in 10’.
(1/8”is equal to a grain of rice), (3/16” = three
stacked quarters).
• All floors must be stable and clean as well as dry to
NWFA/Flooring manufacturers’ specifications. For
complete details please refer to the Installation
Guidelines and Methods published by the National
Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). Additional
application information is available at
www.NWFA.org
ACCLIMATION/CONDITIONING OF THE FLOORING
• All wood products are affected by environmental
conditions/fluctuations especially prefinished
materials. Therefore acclimate the new flooring in the
areas to be installed to normal lived-in conditions
while in the boxes.
• If products are protected in plastic or to speed up
acclimation, open the ends of the boxes. To prevent
board warping, twisting or bowing, do not cut the
outside plastic support packaged bindings until ready
to install.
• Length of acclimation time is not the determining
factor. The goal is to reach an indoor equilibrium or
balance between the “core” of the new flooring with
its surroundings before assembly or installation. This
balance could be achieved in as little as 1 to 5 days, or
longer for some exotic species
Page 5 of 5
• For best performance, condition the flooring to
consistent indoor temperatures of 60°-80° F and
indoor humidity levels of 40% - 60%. The use of a
dehumidifier or a humidifier depending on the local
jobsite situation may be necessary to maintain the
desired results.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE JOBSITE
• Permanent air conditioning and heating systems need
to be operational at all times. Care must be taken
with wood stoves and electric heat which tend to
create very dry conditions.
• Very dry or humid regions of the country usually
require extended conditioning to balance the wood
to its environment.
• The use of dehumidifier or humidifier depending on
the situation may be necessary to maintain desired
results.
• Note that recommended acclimation levels
maintained even after the installation will help to
minimize board movement, excessive squeaks and
gaps.
• Proper jobsite conditions, acclimation and moisture
testing the subfloor and new flooring all work
together for the success of the installation, and is the
responsibility of those overseeing the project.
• Not following the above recommendations can
negatively impact board performance and can result
in excessive squeaks, board gapping, board-edge
cupping and finish related issues, especially so in
seasonal or vacation homes without constant indoor
climate regulated conditions.
DURING ASSEMBLEY
• Ensure that walls are reasonably straight; make
necessary adjustments to the starter row.
• Elastilon must be rolled out perpendicular (90
degrees) to the direction of the floor to be installed.
• Install Elastilon with the white plastic film side up.
• Do not overlap or tape the seams.
• Plastic film protects the adhesive from dust and
contaminates, do not remove until ready to use.
• Only pull out enough plastic film to adhere the
desired amount of boards.
• If film was pulled out too far, tuck film back under the
last row or board to protect the adhesive.
• Start straight, end straight. Select the longest,
straightest boards for the starting rows.
• Hold planks together using blue painter’s tape to
maintain tightness when pulling away film.
• To minimize board-end gapping always apply
carpenters wood glue to all board-end joints.
• Many installers have successfully used mechanical
straps to snug boards tighter during assembly.
However, beware of over-strapping. Note that
mechanical straps should never be used to
compensate for poor quality flooring by forcing
together boards that are warped, bowed, cupped or
twisted. Remove questionable boards before
installation.
WARRANTIES.
A copy of the Warranty may be obtained by contacting the
ElastilonUSA Office. [email protected]
For any questions on the Elastilon Self Adhesive
Installation System, please contact your local
dealer or ElastilonUSA directly at 1-877-526-9663
Replaces: December 12, 2014 Revised date: December 16, 2014