Installation & Maintenance.
Correct installation and ongoing care are essential to the performance and longevity of engineered timber flooring. Download the relevant technical information, installation requirements and aftercare guidance below.
Installation
With tongue and groove to all four sides, our boards are nice and easy to install. If you do choose to install yourself then please refer to our Installation Guidelines available below.
Our flooring is a ‘direct-stick’ type system. This provides a far superior and long lasting finish to some floor products which can be ‘floated’ on an underlay.
The typical process is for the flooring substrate (concrete or timber) is prepared to a flat, smooth surface. This is then sealed to prevent any moisture ingress from underneath with what is called a vapour barrier. Our engineered Oak boards are then stuck down to this surface.
As with everything, the more time spent planning, the more straightforward the installation will be.
Summit Flooring supplies the flooring but does not provide installation. Installation may be undertaken by an experienced timber-flooring installer, competent builder or suitably experienced DIYer. We particularly recommend professional installation for wet areas and projects incorporating underfloor heating.
Typical Installation Costs
Installation costs vary depending on substrate preparation, moisture protection, project layout, stairs and location. We recommend obtaining a project-specific quotation from your chosen installer.
See below for a list of timber floor installers in your area. If you can’t find anyone suitable here, please get in touch.
Installers
The following independent installers have experience working with Summit Flooring products. They are not employees or agents of Summit Flooring, and customers should confirm availability, pricing, qualifications and suitability directly with the installer.
Installation must comply with Summit Flooring’s Installation Guidelines. Please contact us if your region is not listed and we will assist where possible.
Wet Area Installation
Yes, Summit Flooring can be installed in wet areas …
Summit Flooring may be used in kitchens, laundries, powder rooms and toilets when specified and installed in accordance with our E3/AS1 Alternative Solution. It is not suitable for bathrooms or saunas.
Following the November 2021 changes to E3/AS1, engineered timber flooring is no longer listed as an Acceptable Solution in these wet areas. It can still be proposed as an Alternative Solution, supported by the relevant technical documentation as part of the Building Consent process.
Download our E3/AS1 Alternative Solution documentation for single-unit dwellings below. Please contact us if you require project-specific documentation for a multi-unit development. Impermeability test certification is also available on request.
Further references about these Building Code changes can be explored below:
Maintenance
Summit Flooring’s nine-coat UV-cured lacquer system provides a durable, prefinished surface designed for everyday residential use. However, genuine timber flooring is not 100% scratch-proof, dent-proof or waterproof and requires appropriate ongoing care.
Regularly remove dust and grit using a soft broom or vacuum suitable for timber flooring. Wipe spills promptly and clean using a well-wrung microfibre mop with minimal moisture. Avoid steam mops, excessive water, abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Use protective mats at entrances and felt pads beneath furniture. Take particular care with furniture wheels, pet claws, high heels and other items that may scratch or damage the surface.