Some buildings have air conditioning and heating ducts located in their floors rather than their walls or ceilings. If you encounter a floor duct when installing or sanding and finishing an existing hardwood floor and the client prefers a flush mount style vent, you’ll need to know how to install this style vent.
Armed with this step-by-step guide and the right tools for the job, the process will be quick and effective.
Step #1: Using the edges of the vent frame as a guide, use a track saw to square off where the vent will go, right above the floor duct.
We recommend using the Festool TS 55 Plunge Cut Track Saw for this step. The a track attached is perfect for this step because it gives you a smooth, zero-clearance cut and its plunge action ensures precision.
Step #2: Square the corners.
The corners must be square enough to accept the vent frame, so after creating the square in the floor using the track saw, you must use a more precise tool to pick up where the cut leaves off.
Step #3: Use a chisel to remove the pieces of the floor that you’ve freed up, and clean up dust and debris with a vacuum.
Step #4: Apply hot melt adhesive to the square you’ve created in the floor using a hot melt glue applicator.
Step #5: While the adhesive is still pliable, dry-fit the frame in the opening as flush as possible to the existing floor, and secure it using a finish nailer.
We used the Bostitch GBT1850K gas air nailer to secure the frame because its lack of a compressor and a hose makes it extra convenient to use. It also weighs in at a measly four pounds compared with the heavier, battery-operated ones.
Step #6: Insert the vent into the frame. Sand it with the rest of the floor to prep it for the seal and topcoat.
For more information or to order any of the products mentioned in this guide, give us a call at (800) 737-1786, email info@cityfloorsupply.com, or click the links below.
