Solid oak flooring can be discerning to specify. Boards of a single species can be immensely different in grade, character, and performance based on their drying, processing, and finish. These differences are especially important for contractors and clients of commercial or residential projects.

First, grade needs to be decided. European oak traditionally can be ideal, select, nature, and rustic. Ideal oak has unblemished grain and uniform color. Rustic has differences in grain and color. There are no grading standards, and infringements can be confusing when price comparing. When looking for oak, it is prudent to request samples rather than rely solely on grading.

Deciding on board width and thickness is important. Wider boards move more in response to humidity, so a more intensive preparation is crucial. Providing a solid oak board with adequate time to undergo conditioning is important and typically requires two to four weeks, but it is more important it matches the alignment of the board with room humidity and temperature. Boards lacking adequate conditioning can warp or splinter. Guarantees are voided when preparation is not done correctly.

There are requirements for subfloors in solid oak installation. They must be level to within 3mm over 1.8 m, be sound, and be dry. A concrete subfloor screed should be less than 75% relative humidity and a timber subfloor should be 2% or less in moisture content. Wet screeds will be problematic and a damp-proof membrane will be inadequate if a new screed has not fully cured.

The type of fixing is determined by the subfloor and the board. With solid oak, the most prevalent method is secret nailing to timber joists or battens. Fixture boards on a concrete subfloor using only adhesive nailing is a requirement. Solid boards should not be installed using floating methods as they will not restrain movement adequately.