Hi, this is my first post and I will be starting my first install in my house in a couple weeks. I chose a solid hardwood (3 1/4" * 3/4" red oak Tarkett/Harris Wood). My subfloor is 3/4" OSB, relatively flat and squeak free (house is 20 years old). I was going to stick to the #15 felt recommended by the manufacturer as underlay.

I am looking for advice on nailing strategy to reduce the potential of future squeaks. The Harris Wood instructions say to place nails every 6"-8". Another set of instructions I'd read for Columbia (engineered) recommended nails every 4"-6". A book I have by Don Bollinger says "8"-10" in o.c. or closer".

I'm leaning towards 5" spacing. How far apart do you space your nails?

Thank-you,
Peter

Nailing schedules vary according to product and fastener gauge. Your comparing the nailing schedule of a 3/4" solid, to a thinner engineered.
That being said...You want to follow Harris Tarkett, or Columbia, if you were installing their product,( 6-8" happens to be my normal schedule for a 3/4 x 3 1/4).

Great, thanks Howard. I'll use 6" spacing then.
Peter

I agree with the 6" spacing. You can add some screws in the subfloor to help reduce the chance of squeaks.

It's important that the subfloor is solid as stated. Also as important not to skimp on the fastener schedule, this can result in hardwood creaking.