4 Answers

  There could be a number of reasons you are getting moisture in the wood floors. Collectively, the reason is from humidity of some sort. I can suggest one thing that worked for me when my wood floors were just starting to show signs of warpage and curling up to the point you can just see it  when the sunlight was just right:  IF you have a basement or crawl space (I have a basement)  I was told by a professional floor insataller to go in the basement and drill holes into the sub-floor UP TO THE WOOD FLOOR ONLY.  Do not drill through the wood floor.  I drilles 3/4 inch holes in  a lot of areas up through the sub-floor and stopped at the oak wood floors above the sub-floor.  It helped my floor lay back down!

I agree, and also think that the wood must have been dry upon install, and that it is not over concrete floor, even if there is framing, the moisture will still come up from the concrete.

Alot of times moisture below a floor is created by an appliance such as a hot water heater, large water filtration system, or boiler due to condensation on pipes. Often you will notice these are the common problem areas.

If a wooden floor is installed properly, it is not butted tightly against the wall, but has approximately a 1/2" space left for expansion of the wood in the event it absorbs moisture and swells. That way it doesn't buckle, but has a place to spread.

It is also signifcantly important that there is a moisture barrier such as rosin paper or similar material, between the floor and the sub-floor. Typically, this goes over what amount to a thin layer of plywood (often known as Luan). These steps minimize moisture affecting the wood floor above, create a smooth surface for the finish installation, and also prevent the floor from squeaking when walked over.

I use to install and re-finish hardwood floors as a contractor, and it really is important to follow manufacturer's suggested methods of application. Those suggestions are based upon the experience of many people over the years.

H2 ZERO.