, Author at OLD MASTER PRODUCTS

Vinyl Floor Installation: Tips & Tricks

When it comes to vinyl floor installation, it’s all about the details. These details are often overlooked by novice installers who only know the basics of laying down a new floor. Have no fear – with the right tips and tricks, you can get perfect results time and time again. Whether you’re a professional flooring installer, or a newer installer just starting out, follow these tips and tricks for a flawless vinyl floor installation every time.

Use the Right Tools

Having the right tools for the job is essential. Make sure you have a utility knife, a pull bar, spacers, a pencil, a tape measure, a ruler, a large combination square, a white rubber mallet, goggles, and a saw with a fine tooth. Advanced tools are optional but recommended, like a combination saw, a table saw, a Roto Zip with a carbide tip, a jigsaw, a HEPA vacuum, a circular saw, an undercut saw, and a D-Cut LP-330 LVT/VCT/WPC Flooring Cutter.

Acclimate

Our next tip for perfect vinyl floor installation is to acclimate your flooring: allowing the planks or tiles to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity before starting the installation. Make sure that you are working in a climate-controlled environment with constant ambient temperatures of 65°F (approx. 18°C) for 48 hours before, during, and after beginning the installation.

Layout & Staggering

An important part of the installation process is the layout and staggering of the planks or tiles. For a perfect result, you should start in one corner of the room and work your way out towards the opposite wall, randomly staggering the ends. You should also work with multiple boxes at a time in order to create a natural-looking variation on the floor.

Moisture Barriers

Often overlooked, moisture barriers are a must-have for any vinyl floor installation. It is recommended that you use a Garrison Moisture Barrier (or equivalent product) at least 6 mil thick (We recommend 10 mil). This will add an additional layer of protection against excess moisture and seasonal changes.

Overall

Vinyl floor installation can be tricky for those without the proper experience and know-how. But, by following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to perfect vinyl floor installation. With the right preparation and tools, you can create a floor that you and your customers will love.

Looking for an on-the-go reference? Our Vinyl Installation Instructions are available here.

If you need help or have any questions, you can contact us here and our flooring specialists will be in touch soon.

Handling Weather Issues & Flooring Installs

As a flooring installer, there’s nothing more frustrating and disruptive than dealing with weather issues during flooring installations. From rainy days to humidity to extreme heat, there are plenty of ways for Mother Nature to put a proverbial wrench in the works. But don’t fret! Just because the weather isn’t cooperating doesn’t mean you have to cancel those flooring installations. Here are some tips for tackling weather issues so you can stay productive even when the skies are uncooperative.

Look at the Forecast

Before you begin your flooring installation, take time to look at the weather forecast. Pay close attention to the high and low temperatures, as well as relative humidity. All these factors can affect the quality of the installation, so it’s important to think ahead. Keep in mind that certain products require specific temperature and humidity levels to ensure they look their best.

Have a Backup Plan

The most important thing flooring installers can do when facing weather-related issues is to have a backup plan in place. This means being prepared for rain, humidity, cold, heat, and other extreme weather conditions. If the weather turns for the worse, you might need to reschedule, wait for better conditions, or find another way to complete the installation.

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Take Protective Measures

Protective measures are another way to prevent weather-related issues during flooring installations. Make sure to cover the materials with a waterproof barrier while unloading them, ensure the area they are in is protected from the elements, and take the time to keep the elements out. You may also have to take additional time prepping the job site to make sure the humidity and temperature are in-line with the flooring’s warranty.

Use High-Quality Materials

Be sure to use the best materials for the job too. High-quality materials provide the highest level of protection against reasonable amounts of heat, moisture, and humidity. Installing materials that are of lower quality could ultimately lead to damaged flooring, especially in harsh weather conditions.

While weather issues during flooring installations can present serious challenges, the job can be easily completed with the right preparation. By following the above tips, you can ensure that your flooring installations go off without a hitch even in the most extreme weather conditions.

Have any questions? Contact us here and one of our trained flooring specialists will be in touch soon.

Safety Tips for Hardwood Flooring Installation

Installing hardwood flooring is an intensive job, and if not done safely can cause serious injury. That’s why we’re offering up a few safety tips for hardwood flooring installation. As a flooring installer, it’s important to take safety seriously, and following these tips can help ensure that your projects go off without a hitch.

Most importantly, wear proper attire when installing. There are some specific types of shoes that provide more protection for your feet, such as steel-toed boots. You should also cover your face with safety glasses and/or a mask when necessary. These items will help protect you from sawdust, fumes, and flying debris.

Next, it’s important to assess the environment where the installation will take place. Before beginning, clear the installation space of any items that could get in the way and become damaged, as well as any tripping/hazards, uncovered cords, wires, nails, and screws. Make sure you have enough room to move about freely, and all of the tools and supplies needed. And throughout the project, don’t forget to be mindful of any other potential hazards that may be present.

It’s also important to use the right tools for the job. Check the manufacturer’s directions for any specific tools that may be needed and make sure that all tools are in good working condition before you begin the installation process. Avoid using any tools that appear to be damaged or malfunctioning in any way.

Finally, use caution when using power tools. Tools such as saws and drills carry serious risks, so make sure you’re familiar with the operating instructions and any safety precautions before you begin. Always make sure that your work area is free of any debris and make sure to keep your hands and clothing away from any moving parts.

Heavy lifting can be a major hazard during floor installation projects, so make sure to use appropriate lifting methods. This means always lifting with your legs and not your back. If the material is too heavy, find someone to help you. It’s also important to take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion.

These safety tips for hardwood flooring installation are just the tip of the iceberg. When it comes to safety on the job, it’s important to take the extra step to ensure that safety is always top of mind. As flooring installers, it’s up to us to make sure the job gets done safely and that everyone’s safety is taken into account. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and your own common sense when it comes to keeping yourself, your team, and the job site safe.

Modern Styling with Practical Functionality

We are thrilled to unveil PARALLELS, the latest addition to our exquisite Garrison Wall Covering Collection. Designed with a contemporary edge and top-notch acoustic features, PARALLELS is the ideal choice to enhance any living space.

PARALLELS are available in four lavish colors, including Gray, Natural Oak, Snow, and Warm Oak, providing you with a variety of choices to transform any room into an oasis of luxury. Whether you prefer the timeless look of Natural Oak and Warm Oak or the contemporary sophistication of Gray and Snow, PARALLELS has got you covered.

The panels come in two sizes, 8′ and 10′ tall, both 2’ wide, and can be installed on both walls and ceilings. With the three-sided decorative wood veneer and coordinating edge 10′ mouldings available in all PARALLELS Wall Covering colors, you can create a personalized look for your space, making it truly one-of-a-kind.

And the best part? Installation is a breeze! Use black drywall screws on the felt, between slats, for a seamless and easy installation. Or, use a tacky adhesive for a more secure and permanent installation .

PARALLELS Wall Coverings are precisely manufactured with a premium fireproof felt backing. But that’s not all – our PARALLELS Wall Coverings are specifically engineered to reduce unwanted noise. The acoustic properties of each panel facilitate the absorption of sound, providing you with a serene and peaceful area to relax, work, or unwind.

With PARALLELS Wall Coverings, you have everything you need to create a unique and personalized space that is both stylish and functional. So why wait? Discover the magic of PARALLELS Wall Coverings today, available exclusively from Garrison.

Elevate your home or office with the perfect blend of style, soundproofing, and safety. Click here to learn more and contact us to order today!

Want to see PARALLELS in your space? Check out our visualizer!

Benefits of High-Quality Hardwood Flooring

For professional flooring installers, one thing that can’t be overlooked are the benefits of high-quality hardwood flooring. While there are plenty of flooring materials to choose from, no material can quite match the benefits of quality hardwood.

Durability – A key benefit of high-quality hardwood flooring is its durability and strength. Quality hardwood is able to stand up to wear and tear for generations when properly maintained, creating a lasting impression and investment. And for busy households or homes with pets, hardwood remains looking its best without needing much upkeep like other flooring options require.

Cost-Effectiveness – One of the greatest benefits of high-quality hardwood flooring is the value it adds to a home. A well-maintained hardwood floor can last for decades or even centuries with the right care, so it provides an excellent return on investment. In fact, installing hardwood floors can even increase the value of a home significantly and make it much easier to sell.

Green Forest - Eco-Friendly High-Quality Hardwood Flooring

Eco-Friendly – Yet another benefit of hardwood flooring is that it’s one of the most eco-friendly choices out there. Hardwood is much more sustainable than other materials like carpet or linoleum, making it a great choice for those looking to “go green”. Hardwood is also a renewable resource, meaning it won’t deplete over time unlike synthetic materials.

Ease of Installation – When it comes to installation, hardwood flooring is generally easier to install than other materials. It typically only involves gluing, nailing, or stapling down the wood onto a subfloor, meaning installation can be completed quickly.

When you put all of the benefits of high-quality hardwood flooring together, it’s no wonder why it’s so popular, and why so many flooring installers opt for it. Quality hardwood flooring’s extreme durability, lasting longevity, excellent return on investment, and ease of maintenance makes it a go-to choice for many homeowners.

So, consider using a high-quality hardwood floor for your next project such as Allora, our premium made-in-Italy hardwood available in select character – minimal knots and cracks expertly filled and stained to blend into the flooring – and select – impressively clean with very few pin knots and an attractive, uniform grain. You and your customers will be thrilled with the results!

If you have any questions or would like to speak to one of our flooring specialists, contact us here. We look forward to helping you find your project’s perfect flooring fit.