Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do I need to use profiles?
A: As a general rule, when fitting a “wood type” floor, an expansion gap should be left all the way around the room or area. The edge of the flooring should not come into contact with any walls, door casings, posts, supports or fire surrounds. Where flooring is being continued from one room to another a physical gap should be left to allow movement of the floor between the two areas. A profile should be used wherever an expansion gap is left or the fitted floor finishes against another.
Q: How much expansion is required for the floor?
A: Natural wood products, engineered and even some laminates need room to ‘breathe’. Expansion and contraction is dependant on the relative humidity of the area or adjoining areas in which it is fitted. It is always best to consult the flooring manufacturer for expansion gaps as products can differ. All Parallel profiles are designed to allow for an expansion gap up to 15mm.
Q: How do I calculate the finished floor thickness?
A: The finished floor thickness or height is calculated by simply adding together all the various layers that will complete the finished floor. These often include underlay, adhesive, packers and of course the thickness of the floor boards being used. Once the height is known, selecting the correct base becomes a simple task of making a note as to which of the three base sizes the measurement taken falls in to (see the relevant product pages for more information).
Q: How do I know whether I’ll need a Ramp, High Ramp, Semi-Ramp or a Twin?
A: The shape of the profile required is dependant on the height difference between the two floors where the gap is. The only accurate way to establish the height difference is to measure from the thickness of each flooring type from the substrate floor. Once these thicknesses are known, subtract the smaller number from the larger. The difference in floor heights will then determine the size of the drop required on the profile.
Q: How long will my profiles last?
A: Parallel profiles are manufactured using the highest grade raw materials, whether it be Aluminium or solid hardwoods. This provides the foundations for what are the hardest wearing profiles available in the UK market. The profiles life cycle is dependant on the traffic moving through the given area. Naturally the more dense the traffic volume, the quicker the profile will wear. However to put the wear in perspective, it is very rare that a Parallel profile will need replacing before the flooring
Q: How do I get a colour match?
A: Solid wood profiles and accessories are machined from the respective hardwoods. So for example if you have an American White Oak floor, our American White Oak accessories will be complementary because the wood species is the same. When choosing stained finishes it is advisable to request a sample prior to ordering. Aluminium profiles are designed to either complement or highlight a flooring area, as such, finish is of personal preference.
