Laying wide plank oak flooring
I am starting to lay my wide board floors . Both Oak and Ash . The boards have been air dried for 4 years ( the last 6 months in my garage under a tarp with a dehumidifier – moisture content 8-9 %) .
The widths range from 7″ to 10″ ( with some Ash up to 13″ ) . Thickness is just under 7/8 “.
I have accepted that there will be gaps and that they will grow in the dryer/ colder weather.
I have planed, straight cut and tongue and grooved them but I have heard several options for attachment .
I was going to lay felt paper , Back seal the boards w/ water based poly or old latex paint and conventionally nail / staple the edges. Finish will be oil based poly.
But a woodworker friend told me to use a construction adhesive and face screw & bung the boards. I would even consider face nailing with the old nails if that would stabilize the planks .
I am putting this down ( in the spring ) in a house that does not use the central air very often, so I am also thinking that I should not but the boards together too tightly , in fact , maybe leave a 32nd gap.
I could live with gaps but am afraid that the boards will buckle if laid to tightly.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.