JD wrote:
I have had several companies over to estimate installation of a hardwood
floor. One guy says he uses 3/4 quarter round. Another uses half inch
quarter round and another uses shoe molding. I think one reason the first
one uses 3/4 is that they don't have to be as precise with the cuts near the
wall. However, I have read that you need to leave a half inch space where
the wood adjoins the walls. So if someone uses shoe molding or 1/2 inch
quarter round, couldn't the floor slip out from under the molding? The
smaller molding looks much better, but I don't want problems later. Any
thoughts?

What's on the floor now? It sounds like the baseboards are already in
place - otherwise most of the expansion gap would be covered by the
baseboard with additional coverage by the shoe molding. Quarter round
looks clunky. Shoe molding is a much nicer look.

The flooring company could use a jamb saw to undercut the baseboard.
The flooring company should have one if they're an outfit that's been
around for any length of time.
http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&q=%22jamb%20saw
It's fairly common for the baseboard to be held up 3/8" or so above the
subfloor to allow the carpet edge to be tucked under the baseboard.
Either way undercutting it is a fairly quick operation. The corners
have to be cleaned up with a chisel and hand saws, but unless the room
is very complicated it's straightforward. The only question is how
much the flooring company will charge for the extra effort. It might
be something you could do yourself if you're reasonably handy. You can
rent a jamb saw from Home Depot or other tool rental store. The work
doesn't have to be super precise as the shoe molding will cover the
edge.

R