Hardboard, to condition or not?

[theboypete]

I'm covering my floorboards on the first floor in preparation for carpeting. Nearly all advice on this subject suggests "conditioning" with water 24-48 hours before laying. Is this absolutely necessary for a regularly heated house and does oil-tempered hardboard need the same treatment?
Also are there any problems with airflow in the ceiling void if this is done?

 

[DAZB]

You don't really need to soak them with water but you will need to nail them down using ring shank nails , also known as Annular nails.Be sure to use nails that won't penetrate through the floorboards and endanger your pipes or cables.Nails of 10mm or similar are fine.You will also need to nail about every six square inch ( a lot of nails ) to stop it lifting .

 

[theboypete]

Thanks, should make the whole thing a lot easier.