When installing hardwood strip tongue and groove flooring, nails should be placed how far apart?

When installing hardwood strip tongue and groove flooring, nails should be placed how far apart?

• A. 6-8 inches
• B. 8-10 inches
• C. 10-12 inches
• D. 12-14 inches

Answer: (C)

When installing hardwood strip tongue and groove flooring, it is essential to follow specific fastening guidelines to ensure a secure and stable installation. Placing nails 10-12 inches apart is the standard recommendation because it provides an effective balance between sufficient holding power for the floor while allowing for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood due to temperature and humidity changes. This distance aids in preventing warping, buckling, or other issues related to improper fastening. Nails that are too close together may create unnecessary stress on the flooring, whereas those that are too far apart may not provide adequate support. Thus, maintaining the correct spacing contributes to the durability and longevity of the hardwood floor.

When installing hardwood strip tongue and groove flooring, it is essential to follow specific fastening guidelines to ensure a secure and stable installation. Placing nails 10-12 inches apart is the standard recommendation because it provides an effective balance between sufficient holding power for the floor while allowing for the natural expansion and contraction of the wood due to temperature and humidity changes.

This distance aids in preventing warping, buckling, or other issues related to improper fastening. Nails that are too close together may create unnecessary stress on the flooring, whereas those that are too far apart may not provide adequate support. Thus, maintaining the correct spacing contributes to the durability and longevity of the hardwood floor.