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Q:
Why do you recommend using the wax paper as underlayment?
A: We have two reasons. In new home construction the plywood may
appear dry however it is often between 18 and 22% Moisture Content.
The National Wood Flooring Association recommends the subfloor not
be more than 4% higher than the hardwood floor. Our flooring runs
between 6-8% which means the subfloor should not exceed a moisture
content of 12%. If the dry hardwood is put directly on the high
moisture content subfloor it has no choice but to absorb the unwanted
moisture from the subfloor. When wood absorbs moisture it swells
which causes cupping. The wax paper helps prevent that unwanted
moisture transfer and allows the subfloor to dry from underneath.
We like to think that putting the wax paper between two hard surfaces
will prevent unwanted squeaks. The cost of a 750 square foot roll
is $20.00 which gives good insurance.
Q: It is February and I have developed small spaces between the
boards. Is this to be expected?
A:To get the most out of your floor, you must control the interior
environment by keeping relative humidity between 35 and 50%. In
the heating season often the relative humidity will drop below that
range and your floor has no choice but to shrink. Especially where
your heating ducts run under the floor your spaces will be larger.
When the humidity returns in the spring and summer these spaces
will disappear and your floor will be tight again. The wood will
adjust to the environment it is put in. Controlling that environment
is the only way to prevent the movement. A good test is to leave
potato chips in a bowl on the table. If they remain crunchy and
edible after a number of days your home is too dry. Please see the
Relative Humidity Chart in the
information section.
Q: How long should I have the wood in my house before laying
it?
A: This varies from season to season. In new home construction there
are many sources of unwanted moisture. (Drywall, paint, cement,
and other building materials) More detail is available in our Information
section "Woods Acclimation".
Q: I have been told that wide boards will cup. Is that true?
A: Wide boards will cup if they are put in the wrong conditions.
By selling direct to the customer we are able to find out the conditions
the floor will be exposed to. New or relatively new well ventilated
homes are not a problem with dry basements that are heated. If you
wanted to put wide flooring over a crawl space in an unheated building
we would advise against it. If there are any doubts there could
be a problem we would advise against it. Your long term happiness
is very important to us.
Q: Can I put hardwood in my basement?
A: It is not recommended to put hardwood below grade. If at any
time water was allowed to get in your basement the floor most likely
would be ruined. Water is a hardwood's worst enemy.
Q: Why should we buy a floor from your company rather than the
larger manufactures?
A: We start with a higher grade of lumber which produces longer
lengths. Our waste factor on our Prime floors averages between 2
and 3%. We have a large selection to choose from in both species
and widths, in stock ready to go. We have the moldings to match
your floor. Our salespeople are honest, sincere and can answer all
your questions. Making your home beautiful is as
important to us as it is to you.
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