Racing to install your new Marley dance floor or an entire dance flooring system, including a floating wood subfloor, can be a recipe for long-term headaches if you don’t do your homework. A few tips, and you will be well on your way to a stress-free install and an expectation of long-term reliability.
Whether you are installing yourself, or have hired a “professional,” knowing what to do and what not to do can save thousands of dollars in re-dos.
First, whoever is installing should read the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This obvious tip is very often ignored, especially by the seasoned veteran. Not sure of how to proceed? Call and ask questions. Knowledge is power.
As Marley dance floor systems are generally not installed the same way a traditional floor is, sometimes previous experience doesn’t always help. So, let’s start at the beginning.
We start with what you have. It is the slab or base that your floor system sits on. It can be concrete, commercial carpet, plywood, or even an existing hardwood or tile floor. Concrete slabs need to be sealed against moisture no matter what floor level they are on. All slabs need to be level or made level prior to installing your floor. They need to be secure; no loose boards or tiles, and they need to be vacuumed clean. Wood may need to be patched and/or repaired. Slabs need to be smooth so that your floating subfloor sits flush on it. Check specifications for tolerances of slab variation. Missing this step could cause structural damage later.
When receiving your Marley floor system or hardwood dance floor, do the following:
#1. Immediately inspect your shipment to determine if you received everything you ordered and that there is no damage. Immediately take photos of any damaged goods and report it to the shipper. If you see damage at the time of delivery, sign for the shipment and note damaged on the bill of lading. Interstate trucking companies should be insured for full replacement; however, any delay without verification can jeopardize the claim.
#2. Most deliveries are made with a liftgate that will deposit your order outside your facility unless you happen to have a loading dock. Interstate trucking companies do not make inside deliveries. Be prepared to breakdown the pallet(s) and bring your order into the facility.
#3. Marley floors should be stood up until installation. Do not leave the rolls lying on the ground. It could result in “wave set” resulting in bubbles or waves when you roll the floor out.
#4. If you receive a shipment by FedEx or UPS, chances are your order was sent in several boxes. These delivery services have been known to make partial deliveries. Immediately check that you received your entire order. If not, it is likely to show up the next day. Always match your packing slip with what you received, be it a delivery service or a truck.
Call prior to the install with any concerns regarding the condition of the product or how to install. Any “defect” you can see, but install, will not be covered by warrantee. Do your due diligence, review your product list and the instructions, and you will eliminate headaches later.
By Randy Swartz of Stagestep.
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