Moisture

Moisture is the number one enemy of hardwood floors. Wood shrinks and expands to changes in moisture content. Cracks between boards, cupping, crowning, and buckling are possible when moisture and humidity are present.

Concrete slabs should be cured 60 days before the installation of hardwood floors. Moisture content of the concrete or wood subfloor should be checked for a level of 13% or less. The level must be within 4% of the moisture content of the flooring to be installed.

HVAC systems should be fully operational prior to installation, maintaining a consistent room temperature between 60° - 75° Fahrenheit and relative humidity between 40 - 60%. Hardwood flooring should be acclimated on site at least 48 to 72 hours before installation.

After the installation is complete it is important to control the interior climate and follow the proper maintenance proceedures.