Bruce engineered hardwood flooring, a product of the American Hardwood Flooring (AHF) family, is designed to combine the aesthetic appeal of natural hardwood with the durability and flexibility of multilayered construction. This article provides an in-depth look at the installation process for Bruce engineered hardwood flooring and outlines the company’s warranty provisions. The content is based solely on the technical information provided in the source materials, ensuring accuracy and adherence to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Overview of Bruce Engineered Hardwood Flooring
Bruce has been a leader in the hardwood flooring industry since 1865, and its transition into engineered hardwood reflects a strategic adaptation to evolving market demands. Engineered hardwood flooring is a hybrid between solid wood and laminate flooring. It consists of multiple layers of wood, with the top layer being real wood. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to warping or shrinking compared to solid hardwood, especially when installed in environments with fluctuating humidity or temperature.
One of the key advantages of Bruce engineered hardwood is its compatibility with radiant heated concrete subfloors, provided that the surface temperature does not exceed 85°F. This feature makes it a versatile option for modern homes where underfloor heating is becoming increasingly common. Additionally, Bruce engineered hardwood is available in a range of finishes and styles, making it suitable for various interior design preferences.
Installation Considerations for Bruce Engineered Hardwood
Proper installation is crucial to the longevity and performance of Bruce engineered hardwood flooring. The installation process involves several key steps, including site preparation, underlayment installation, and the actual laying of the flooring. Each step must be executed with care to ensure the flooring functions as intended and remains under warranty.
Site Preparation
Before beginning the installation process, it is essential to assess the condition of the subfloor. Bruce emphasizes that the subfloor must be clean, dry, flat, and structurally sound. Any deficiencies in the subfloor can lead to issues such as warping, buckling, or premature wear of the flooring. The manufacturer explicitly states that it does not assume responsibility for installation failures caused by poor subfloor conditions.
Additionally, the job-site environment must meet or exceed applicable industry standards. The installer should ensure that the room is free from excessive humidity or moisture, as these factors can affect the stability of the engineered hardwood. It is also recommended to follow local building codes and industry best practices to ensure a safe and effective installation.
Acclimation of Hardwood
Acclimation is an important step in the installation process. Bruce recommends allowing the flooring to acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity for a period of three to five days. This helps to prevent post-installation issues such as cupping or gapping between the planks.
During acclimation, it is advisable to arrange the flooring pieces to visualize the final layout. This allows for the identification and removal of any irregularly shaped or defective boards before installation. The manufacturer suggests allowing an overage of 10-15% when purchasing flooring to account for cutting and irregular boards.
Underlayment Installation
Underlayment serves as a protective layer between the subfloor and the engineered hardwood. Bruce provides specific recommendations for underlayment based on the type of flooring being installed. For floating installations, especially when using Bruce Hydropel flooring, the underlayment should be installed in the same direction as the hardwood flooring.
The underlayment should extend a few inches up the wall and be trimmed before installing trim or moldings. Some underlayment products may already have double-sided tape for securing overlapping seams. If a non-adhesive underlayment is used, it is essential to tape all seams with the recommended tape to prevent movement or gaps.
The manufacturer also lists specific adhesives and underlayment options for different Bruce flooring products. For example, Bruce Hydropel flooring is recommended to be installed with Premium Underlayment and paired with adhesives such as Bruce® Summit Select™ All In One Adhesive or Bruce Equalizer™ Pro.
Laying the First Row
The installation of the first row sets the foundation for the entire flooring project. Bruce recommends beginning the installation on the left side of the room and working toward the right. The first plank should be placed with the small, tongue side facing the wall. Subsequent planks in the first row are aligned and locked into place by fitting the short ends together.
To maintain a proper expansion zone, spacers should be placed along the sides of the first row that are adjacent to walls. This expansion zone is crucial to accommodate the natural movement of the wood due to changes in temperature and humidity. The recommended expansion zone is 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) around the perimeter of the room.
When the last plank of the first row is to be cut, it should be measured and adjusted to fit the remaining space, taking into account the expansion zone. If the remaining distance is less than 8 inches, the installer should cut the first plank in the row to ensure that the end pieces are long enough to avoid visible seams.
Installing the Remaining Rows
After the first row is in place, the remaining rows are installed by locking each plank into the previous one. Bruce provides detailed instructions for aligning and securing each row to ensure a tight fit and a seamless appearance. It is important to avoid using pieces that are questionable in terms of grade or finish. If a board is deemed unsuitable, it should not be used, and the seller should be contacted for a replacement.
During the installation process, it is normal for some separation between boards to occur due to seasonal changes in humidity and temperature. This is not considered a defect and is not covered under the warranty. However, as long as the flooring is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and maintained properly, it should perform well over time.
Warranty Coverage for Bruce Engineered Hardwood
Bruce offers a comprehensive warranty for its engineered hardwood flooring, which includes both a structural integrity warranty and an adhesive bond warranty. These warranties provide peace of mind to consumers, ensuring that the product is free from defects and will perform as expected under normal conditions.
Structural Integrity Warranty
Bruce’s structural integrity warranty covers defects in lamination, assembly, milling, dimension, and grading. This warranty is valid for the lifetime of the original purchaser, provided that the flooring is installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, Bruce warrants that its engineered hardwood flooring will not buckle, cup, or warp when installed on a radiant heated concrete subfloor, as long as the surface temperature does not exceed 85°F. This warranty applies only to the original owner of the flooring and is contingent upon proper installation and maintenance.
It is important to note that natural hardwood, including engineered hardwood, will expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. As a result, some separation between the planks may occur at different times of the year. This is considered normal and is not covered under the warranty.
Adhesive Bond Warranty
The adhesive bond warranty ensures that the bonding between the layers of the engineered hardwood will remain intact. This warranty also covers the lifetime of the original purchaser and applies to floors that are installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
To maintain warranty coverage, it is essential to use the recommended adhesives and installation methods. Bruce provides a list of recommended adhesives for different flooring products, which can be found in the source materials. Using non-recommended adhesives or installation techniques may void the warranty.
Maintenance and Care for Bruce Engineered Hardwood
Proper maintenance is essential to preserving the appearance and performance of Bruce engineered hardwood flooring. The manufacturer recommends using the Bruce® Hardwood & Laminate Floor Cleaner for regular cleaning. This cleaner is specifically formulated for hardwood and laminate floors and will not damage the finish or adhesive bonds.
In addition to regular cleaning, it is important to avoid the use of excessive water or harsh chemicals, which can cause damage to the flooring. Spills should be wiped up promptly, and the floor should be dried thoroughly after cleaning.
For minor scratches or imperfections, Bruce recommends using a stain, filler, or putty stick for touch-up. These products are considered part of normal installation procedures and can help maintain the appearance of the flooring over time.
Conclusion
Bruce engineered hardwood flooring offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for modern homes. The installation process requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure optimal performance and warranty coverage. By following the recommended steps for site preparation, underlayment installation, and flooring layout, homeowners can achieve a professional-looking result that will last for years.
The manufacturer’s comprehensive warranty provides additional assurance, covering defects in structural integrity and adhesive bonds. With proper maintenance and care, Bruce engineered hardwood flooring can maintain its appearance and functionality, making it a valuable investment for any home.