Parquet is a module made with multiple wood pieces that are assembled to create a pattern.   A lot of people associate parquet with finger block square tile.  The most common and popular finger block parquet patterns are 12″ x 12″ and 9″ x 9″ parquet tiles.

 

How to repair water-damaged parquet flooring?

Water damage can ruin some old parquet tiles beyond repair.  Typically, it is finger block parquet tiles like 9″ x 9″ or 12″ x 12″.  Czar Floors can custom produce parquet tiles in similar wood and dimensions.  Please note that the minimum order is 100 sq. ft.  Both old and new floors need to be resanded together and possibly stained, trying to blend old and new wood.  Initially, old tiles will look a lot darker from age and finish discoloration.  After sanding and finishing, it should be pretty close to the new flooring.

 

How to clean parquet floors?

The first rule – to not use water mopping or steam cleaners.  Vacuum as often as you would your carpet.  Don’t use rotating brushes – turn it off if possible.  Use specialized wood floor cleaning products such as Bona Wood Floor Cleaner.

 

Storage and Handling

Handle and unload with care.  Store in a dry place to provide at least a four-inch air space under cartons stored upon “on-grade” concrete floors.  Flooring should not be delivered until the building has been closed in with windows and doors in place until cement work, plastering, and all other “wet” work are completed and dry.  The concrete should be at least 60 days old.  Solid oak parquet flooring should be stored in the environment in which it is expected to perform.  Air conditioning/heating systems should be in place and in operation at least 14 days prior, during, and after installing the flooring.

Unfinished parquet floors are not meant to be stored for prolong period.  Even in perfect storage conditions, the unfinished wood can absorb moisture from the air and expand, change geometry.  It is recommended to install the flooring within two weeks after receipt.  Acclimation usually takes no more than a week.

 

Subfloor Preparation

If installing over an inadequate, existing plywood subfloor, consider installing plywood underlayment over the existing subfloor.  Standard 4 X 8 plywood sheet should be cut into four pieces and screwed to the subfloor leaving a small, 1/8″ gap between the sheets to expand.

 

Concrete Slabs

Solid parquet flooring can be glued directly to concrete.  If using Concrete sealer – it has to be from the same manufacturer as the adhesive.  The concrete must be of high compressive strength.  All concrete subfloors should be tested for moisture content.  Visual checks are not reliable.  Acceptable test methods for subfloor moisture content include:

  • Calcium Chloride test. The maximum moisture transfer must not exceed 3 lbs./1000 square feet with this test.
  • Tramex Concrete Moisture Encounter meter. Moisture readings should not exceed 4.5 on the upper scale.

 

Installation

When installing unfinished solid parquet flooring, allow a minimum of 36 hours adhesive curing time before applying seals, stains, and finishes to unfinished flooring.  Trowel filling and fillers are required to reduce the possibility of panelization caused by the finish “gluing” the slats together.  Test the moisture content of the wood per the stain/finish manufacturer’s recommendations.  Avoid installing from the surface of the flooring.  If necessary, distribute weight using a kneeler board.

 

Design

Parquet flooring was perfected in the grandest of settings – at the Palace of Versailles – and has been associated with prestige ever since.  Not only does it evoke a sense of history, but by bringing wood of various colors and grains together in a classic pattern, parquet truly is inspired by nature.  Throughout the 20th century patterned flooring was popular, and parquet continues to enjoy a trendy status in today’s interiors.  Coupled with minimal schemes, its heritage feel creates striking contrast and enthuses time-honored sophistication.

The classic elegance of parquet flooring is matched by long-lasting durability and the stability of real timber.  Plus, every block is unique.  With deep shades and rich grain detail, you’ve got nature’s beauty beneath your feet.

Remember that parquet brings a pattern to your floor. In smaller rooms, this can make the space feel smaller.  To avoid a very busy look, use furnishings with a minimal style.  As a general tip, parquet flooring always works better in rooms where furniture serves as a background rather than the focal point.  It’s all about making the most of your parquet by bringing the pattern to the fore.

Darker parquet floors make a beautiful contrast for bright white walls.  These shades are best suited to larger rooms such as lounges and hallways where they can make a grand statement.  Paler shades are great for creating a soft and airy feel in small or darker rooms.  As a neutral base, the flooring is perfect for furniture and accessories that are more ornate or bold in color.

 

Contact us

VCH Flooring stands by the promise to do the job right.  Our professional installers will perform services consistent with the industry standards to your satisfaction.  If you have concerns after the installation, contact us within 60 days and the services with be re-done at no additional cost.  Product warranties vary by manufacturer.  Because we are a services company and do not manufacture products, we only warranty our services with the DONE RIGHT GUARANTEE.  We will disclose the warranties before the work begins as part of our transparency policy to be good neighbors who serve the community with excellence.  Email vchflooring@gmail.com

VCH Flooring 1812 Underwood Blvd, Delran, NJ 08075. https://vchflooring.com/contact-us/    856- 393- 1310

 

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