Replies

1. 
   davidmeiland | Nov 21, 2003 07:59pm | #1

   I've put 2-1/4 rift white oak over radiant floor with no problems. Get a moisture meter and make sure that the subfloor and hardwood flooring are at approximately the same moisture content. It's helpful to unbundle the flooring and distribute it around the room (as opposed to leaving all of it bundled and stacked in one corner). Lay the flooring, rough-sand it, and apply filler. Let it sit a couple of weeks and then apply more filler, sand it, and finish it. It's a pain in the #### to schedule this way but it's worked well for me.

   Staple-up under 1-1/2" of material will be somewhat slow. Our house with the radiant had areas of 5/16 flooring and areas of 3/4, and I could tell the difference. Make sure it's correctly insulated underneath.  I think that a layer of bubble-foil insulation under the tubing and above the fiberglass is a good idea.

2. 
   blackcloud | Nov 21, 2003 10:17pm | #2

   Allen,

   Like the previous post it is important to let your wood acclimate.  There are several species of wood that are better then others, Brazilian cherry is wonderful (very stable)  talk to your local floor guy, local radiant guys and get what worked for them.  Also do a search of this site there have been numerous discussions on this topic.  I used 3/4"  2 1/2" wide hickory/pecan prefinished and installed myself.  Also using a prefinish has the advantage of not showing gaps as much, do to the micro bevel of the boards.

   Jason

   If it wasn't for bad luck I wouldn't have Any!
1. 
   azreich | Nov 21, 2003 10:52pm | #3

   Jason,

   Thanks for the info. Some say you can only use a few types of wood. I'm now hearing that you can use most popular types which is good news. Regards, Allen