Flooring

12.18

Cracks Developing Between Strips Of Hardwood Or Parquet Flooring

Acceptable Performance/Condition
Cracks resulting from joints that remain open in excess of 2 mm over the length of the strip are not acceptable.

Warranty
One -Year Work and Materials
Cracks resulting from normal shrinkage of materials due to drying after construction, damage caused by normal wear and tear or improper maintenance is excluded from the warranty.

Action
Cracks greater than the acceptable condition shall be repaired.

Remarks
Hardwood and parquet flooring are natural wood products and therefore are highly susceptible to changes in indoor relative humidity, which may cause dimensional changes in the flooring material. To determine warrantability, the width of the crack should be measured during both the heating and cooling seasons.
The homeowner has a responsibility to maintain indoor humidity levels through humidification, ventilation, air conditioning or dehumidification to prevent permanent, irreversible damage.
A hygrometer can be used to monitor indoor humidity levels.
Areas around heat registers and those exposed to concentrated sunlight may be more susceptible.
Wood filler may be used for repairs.