Hi everyone,

This is my first post. I am going to be doing a DIY install of hardwoods in my above grade great room and kitchen. I have looked at many different retailers and floors and heard conflicting information. I really like the look of the BR-111 Solid 5/16" Tigerwood, but I also like some of the 3/4" hardwoods in various brands. I don't plan on being in the house more then a few years so refinishing several times is a not an issue. One retailer said with a 5/16" floor I would have to lay down plywood first, but I already have a 23/32" plywood subfloor, so I am not sure I understand that. The 5/16" does look a bit flimsy to be stapled down, will that be an issue even if I have the right nailer. Is one thickness more difficult to install then the other.

Anyway, I would appreciate any info you have to share.

Thanks in advance.

If the 5/16" flooring is no wider than 3" (less is better), then stapling should be fine. This is done very successfully with both Bruce and Hartco's 5/16" solid floors. Over 3" wide, I think one is better off gluing down a thin plank, or floating it IF it is a recommended installation procedure for that particular floor. Even 3/4" wide plank floors are more and more being glued and nailed.