A knowledge of the expected moisture content of wood flooring in a particular area after acclimation;
the moisture content of flooring at time of installation;
and additional factors which contribute to the changing moisture content of wood flooring; is necessary to assure the proper performance of flooring.

DELIVERY- If the atmosphere is damp, cover each truckload of flooring with a tarpaulin until it can be unloaded. Never deliver or store unprotected flooring in rain, sleet, or snow.

PROPER WAREHOUSING- Kiln dried flooring should be stored in an enclosed building that is well ventilated with weather proof windows and located in areas where similar fine millwork is stored. The storage area within the building should be clean and dry. Provide good air circulation around stacks of flooring and prevent water drainage into the storage area.

MOISTURE CONTENT- NOFMA MEMBERS' oak flooring is manufactured at 6-9% moisture content. It is desirable to maintain this average moisture content as close as possible.

ACCLIMATE STOCK- Recently manufactured flooring should be allowed to acclimate to the area. This helps prevent cracks which may result if the flooring is installed while at a higher moisture content, oversized, and later shrinks.

Before delivery check the job site. The flooring should not be exposed to high humidity or moisture. Direct surface drainage away from the building. Basements and crawl spaces must be dry and well ventilated. In joist construction, outside cross ventilation through vents or other openings in the foundation walls must be provided with no dead air areas. A ground cover of 6 mil polyethylene film is essential as a moisture retarder.

Before flooring is delivered to the job site the building should be closed in with outside windows and doors in place. All concrete, masonry, sheetrock, and framing members should be thoroughly dry. In warm months the building must be well ventilated; during winter months heating should be maintained near occupancy levels at least five days before flooring is delivered and until sanding and finishing are completed.

Information courtesy of NOFMA The wood flooring manufacturer's association. for further information visit The Wood Flooring Manufactures' web site at www.nofma.org or contact Monticello Flooring at info@monticelloflooring.com