PERFORMANCE GUIDELINES: 12. FLOORING

12.21 Strip Hardwood Flooring Cupped (High Edges)

Acceptable Performance/Condition

The term “cupping” is used to describe a condition where the outer edges of strip floor boards are bowed upward. Cupping of hardwood flooring may occur for a number of reasons; however, often it is caused by excessive moisture conditions. When excessive moisture below the flooring or high humidity within the new home exists, warpage may occur across the width of the floor boards. Cupping of hard wood flooring is considered to be a defect when it is:

1. A result from defective labour or materials, and;
2. In excess of 1.5mm (1/16”) in height over a 100mm (4”) board width when measured perpendicular to the grain.

Warranty Coverage

• 12 months In-Home
• 15 months Common Property

Damage caused by maintenance not conducted in keeping with maintenance documentation provided to the owner by the warranty provider or builder is not covered under warranty. Cupping caused by excessive humidity due to failure by the owner to maintain adequate ventilation and humidity levels is not covered under warranty.

Claim Response

Flooring not meeting the Acceptable Performance/Condition is to be rectified. The builder or warranty provider may request one complete heating and cooling season in order to consider settlement and shrinkage of the new home as well as proper humidity levels.

Where repairs are required, colour, finish, grain, sheen or texture may not have an exact match.

Maintenance Tip

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.

Do not wet mop or steam clean hardwood floors.