Hello,
I first want to say how thankful I am that I found this forum. I hope someone will be able to help me.

We are looking to install Engineered (BR 111 Santos Mahogany or Braz Cherry) on slab. Is it ok to do this since we live about 8 miles from the Coast? We are in San Diego, CA. and this is a brand new house, escrow is to close in July. The house is up in the hills if that makes a difference.

I am concerned about buckling and other issues due to moisture since we will be so close to the coast.

Also, should I request an MVP barrier? Some flooring companies tell me that I won't need it if the moisture level is normal, but I wonder if I should get it anyways.

If you keep the interior of your home at normal temps and humidity levels, you should have no problems IF your concrete slab tests at normal moisture content. New homes normally have vapor barriers installed under the slabs. You can ask if there was one put under yours. It is code in some communities. Being close to a body of water should not be a concern if you maintain normal relative humidity levels within the house. That is typically between 40 to 60% relative humidity, with 45 to 50% being ideal. Engineered floors were designed to be glued directly to concrete. Make sure your installers moisture test the concrete slab and the wood. They should also monitor the relative humidity and see what your interior levels normally are. They also need to check for flatness of the slab to ensure a solid and trouble free installation. Most slabs need a little work prior to installation.
Read these:
http://www.hardwoodinstaller.com/hardwo ... r/glue.htm
http://www.hardwoodinstaller.com/hardwo ... n-prep.htm

Thanks so much Gary! I will call the builders and ask them regarding the vapor barrier.


Any other comments are welcomed! ( and much appreciated!)

Also, what does HVAC mean?

heating, ventilation, air conditioning. HVAC