javascript:emoticon(':?')I have decided to have Br-111 engineered 6 1/4 5/16 hardwood installed in my home. They told me that in order to complete the gluedown process they need to leave a 2 inch space around the edge. I thought that was just for floating? am I wrong? Also, I asked if the eng wood needs to sit in the home to acclimate and was told that that is really only important with solid wood and engineered doesn't expand and contract greatly? Is this true? I though it needed to acclimate to the home. Also, l hearing people here it appears that I need to make sure that he opens every box before he begins for color variation. He should know this already if he is a professional installer right? These guys only work on installing hardwood floors so I am assuming their knowledge is vast.

First mistake. Never assume. Always ask for proof. You are in Los Angeles?
If so, check with the Contractors License Board about your contractor's status. If he uses employees, he needs up to date workers compensation insurance. Ask for an insurance certificate of liability insurance and workers comp. Ask for referals and check them out. Look at work he has done before. Ask how long he has been doing flooring (experience). Ask if he warranties his work and for how long. Is he a member of any professional organizations? What are his credentials? FYI, the LA area is full of immigrant labor willing to work for cheap. Just because someone says they are a professional does not mean you will get a great job. You need to verify who you are hiring. And I've never heard of a flooring manufacturer recommending a 2" expansion space except for large gymnasiums. That would be a red flag in my mind. Typically, the rule of thumb is expansion space=thickness of flooring.