Claims typically submitted by consumers are largely a result of installation failure. By avoiding the common mistakes below we feel confident no warranty issues will arise. We also suggest taking a few moments to read our story on state of the industry - hardwood installers.

Manufacturers will not honor any warranty claims under the following circumstances: Hardwood floor problems

1- Buckling, Cupping, Crowning and Tenting of Hardwood Floors

▪ This usually occurs when no acclimation period is followed. Other reasons can include failure to do proper moisture testing. Both are extremely important to achieve a defect free installation. Other reasons these problems can occur is the lack of expansion hardwood floors need.

2- Creaking, Popping, Squishy, Bouncy, or Sea Saw Effects

▪ These problems are always associated with lack or proper floor preparation, improper subfloors or out of tolerance subfloors.

▪ See floor preparation on concrete subfloors.

▪ See floor preparation on wood subfloors.

3- Gapping. Boards Not Tight

▪ Hardwood flooring undergoes changes with seasons or relative humidity within the home. In most cases it is common to see shrinkage of solid hardwood during dry winter heating months. To avoid gapping we suggest the use of a humidifier during these periods. Gapping can also be a result of installer inability or attention to keeping a floor tight during the installation.

4- Scratching, Dents, Dings

▪ No manufacturer finish warranties cover scratching, dents, dings or any type of damage inflicted. Finish warranties only cover normal wear to bare wood only.

5- Dull Finish Appearances

▪ All manufacturer requirements pertaining to floor care must be followed. Gloss reduction is not considered a defect. Damage caused by other cleaning products are not considered a warranty claim. Don't be mislead by consumer products that claim their products can be used with hardwood floors. Always do your research. We do not advocate the use of wet swiffers or steam vacuums.

6- Fading, Color & Color Changes

▪ All hardwood flooring will undergo color changes over time when exposed to light (direct or indirect) Fading will also occur under the right circumstances. Differences in color from one board to the next is natural as no two pieces of hardwood flooring are alike. When installing it is suggested to work from 3-4 cartons at a time to insure a consistent color mix of hardwood.

7- Visible Defects

▪ Hardwood installed with visible defects will not be covered. It is the responsibility of the installer to look for flaws prior to installation. This includes finish irregularities and overall quality of the flooring. Manufacturers cannot be held responsible for products that were installed with defects.

8- Do It Yourself Jobs

▪ Do it yourself installations are not covered under manufacturer installation warranties.

For more potential installation related problems not covered under manufacturer warranties, we suggest visiting our consumer forum titled Yikes I Have Problems. The forum is a collection of messages from people who have come to our site looking for answers to their installation related problems.

Ken Fisher Hardwood Installer.Com January 2, 2005

• Are Warranties Realistic?