| 1 |
Planning helps! Measure the width of the room, and check the positioning of rows of boards. Normally the last row has to be cut lengthwise to fit, but it is best to cut both the first and last row if the last row would be less than 6cm wide. In this case measure to obtain an equal width to the first and last row (see diagram). You will also need to cut the edge boards if the wall is uneven (see 2, below).
|  |
| 2 |
To cut boards lengthwise the following method can be used :- Measure the amount you need to cut off the board. Make a scribe using a scrap of wood. drilling a hole to hold your pencil as shown in diagram. Place the board with the groove against the wall. Holding the edge of your scribe against the wall, move it along the wall, allowing the pencil to draw a line down the board. Cut along the pencil line.
|  |
| 3 |
Place the first row of boards groove-side to wall, or cut-side if cut. Insert spacers to create expansion gap. Glue end joints.
|  |
| 4 |
When you come to the last board in a row it will normally need to be cut to length. Turn board round (face up) to lie tongue to tongue against the last board laid. Push the end tight to end wall. With a pencil mark where you wish to cut the board, allowing for gap. Cut across the board; then cut lengthwise (see 2) if necessary.
|  |
| 5 |
Glue the end groove and slide the last board into place, with spacers. Ensure the complete row is straight using guide string. Use hammer and jemmy to wedge the board in place and tighten with a spacer between the end of the board and the wall.
|  |
| 6 |
Start the next row using the piece cut from the preceding row. Apply glue to the groove, using the tapping block to close the joints.
|  |
| 7 |
Cut around pipes, pillars etc, using drill, keyhole saw, or chisel as appropriate. Leave an expansion gap all round. See diagram for method round pipes. Glue the loose piece in place and use spacers to hold in position.
|  |
| 8 |
Door frames can be removed and raised, but it is generally easier to saw off at the bottom. Place a piece of flooring on the floor against the door frame and cut the frame with a handsaw. Slide the board under the frame, checking that it is not wedged tightly between frame and sub floor.
|  |
| 9/10 |
When installing the last row, place the last board exactly over the top of the previous board installed. Place a short leftover piece of board face down tongue to wall, as shown in diagram. Move the board down the wall, drawing a line. This line gives an expansion gap the width of the tongue, approximately 5mm. Adjust your line of cutting if you need a larger gap than this.
|  |
| 11 |
Glue the side and end grooves and tap the board in place with hammer and jemmy. Tighten with spacers. Wait a few hours before removing all spacers. Finish off with mouldings and accessories depending on your needs.
|  |
