The randomly spaced knots in inexpensive No. 2 pine also add to the country charm. However, make sure that the knots aren't loose and check that the edges of your stock don't show any bark. For our project, we used 1 x 10 pine. You could choose 1 x 8 or even 1 x 12 stock for a floor, but keep in mind that the wider the stock, the more seasonal shrinkage you can expect and the more difficult it will be to straighten bowed boards. For best results, store your wood in the room in which it will be installed so it can adjust to your home's humidity level.
Preparation First remove the existing baseboard from the walls.
This will simplify reinstallation after the floor is laid. Use locking pliers to pull the finishing nails through the back side of the baseboard to eliminate tearout that can occur when you drive the nails back through the face. Carefully examine the subfloor to see that there are no loose spots or bubbles, that it is properly nailed down and that no nailheads protrude above the surface. The plywood should be nailed every 6 in. To further reduce squeaks in the floor, install a layer of rosin paper between the subfloor and the new pine floor.