Wood flooring is a significant investment, but one which will provide a lifetime of satisfaction. The technically correct installation of exotic wood flooring is critical. I have a significant amount of experience in tropical wood flooring and species and recommend flooring to be installed with cleats, NOT staples. Generally, almost every installer will recommend staples and tell you they are better. Well, they are a bit less expensive than cleats, but why do I recommend cleats for exotic wood flooring? Staples go in with much more pressure to the tongue and this is an issue with more dense wood. Staples are known to split or crack the tongues on the flooring. Why does this matter? You will experience your floor squeaking or making other noises until the tongue is completely cracked off in the groove.
Cleats also allow your flooring to “move” a bit more than staples. This provides some grace in wintertime when floors typically open up or shrink due to the heaters being on and lower relative humidity in the air. Customers have taken my advice on several recent transactions where installers were holding firm and saying this isn’t necessary. It’s vital that you properly interview potential installers to avoid problems later. Asking the right questions is key. I only sell exotic wood flooring and have traveled extensively in South America visiting the jungle, production sites I buy from and job sites here in the U.S. & Canada.
You now have a friend in the wood flooring business! Call the Woodman!