Hardwood Flooring

[Peter C. Russell]

Originally Posted by mcyr

Very good point, and I should not have forgotten that in my post.

It is imperative that any solid wood flooring maintain a minimum of 3/4" expansion capability along the parallel with the grain installation for movement.
The expansion on the end grain side to wall can be reduce slightly.
The size of the room would obviously affect how much expansion is required.

Check the flooring Manufacturers suggested installation procedure for whatever type of flooring is being used. Procedures will vary according to the species and make or style of flooring. That is the most important step with Hardwood Flooring.

Marcel
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That is really good to know, I do have a question and will the floor move that much after it's fastened with nails or like I use staple's?

[Marcel R. Cyr]

Originally Posted by prussell

That is really good to know, I do have a question and will the floor move that much after it's fastened with nails or like I use staple's?

Peter;
The last experience I have had was with Bamboo Flooring and because parallel to grain met up with granite flooring tile, the Manufacturer let us reduce the expansion to 5/8" and use a cork infill for a joint that kind of blended in with the flooring.
The end grain expansion was limited to 5/8" on both sides.

Different scenario would be a gym floor, 1" no exception.
It all revolves around the Humidity environment control. The Manufactures test there products on a particular scale and if any that fall beyond those parameters, then the product will most likely fail.

Hope this helps.

Marcel
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[Marcel R. Cyr]

Originally Posted by ckratzer

Felt,the same type you would use under shingles,should be used as a moisture barrier under hardwood floors.Especially if the floor is over a humid area such as a basement.
Big box stores wiil try to sell you on a "paper moisture barrier" but there is nothing better than good ole' felt,(tar paper).
I'd be willing to bet none was installed.
You may be able to tell by pulling up a floor register if there is one.

Cherimie, I am a strong advocate of this same method, but everytime I bring it up with the younger intellectual Generation, I get call the old man that can't follow the times. ha. ha.
I tell them usually that this old man can still have a few tricks up the sleeve that still work, and this is one of them. It also prevents squeaks that can be annoying with a new hardwood floor. But, I guess you could always try the baby powder in the cracks! Right? ha. ha.

Marcel
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