Subfloor Layout

[n74tg]

Due to some inconsistancies in building I may need to use butt-joints on my 4x8 T&G OSB subflooring.  So we all understand my terminology here is a pic showing the two different layout possibilities.



Floor-joists run vertically, ie the 8' dimension is perpendicular to floor joists.

While I may be able to use the overlap method (my desire), what will be the disadvantages I face if I have to use the butt-joint layout?

thanks...Tony

[glenn kangiser]

More flexing at the floor joist that has no overlap (staggered joint)

[Redoverfarm]

Tony I think the "overlap" would yeild the strongest floor. Generally that is the way I have always done mine and others I have observed.

[PEG688]

 

Definitely stagger ( or as you call / show it ) overlap you joints , always the best way , even when you hang your sheetrock your "butt joints" should be staggered , or again overlapped.

"Overlapped" is the wrong  term as it indicated they are laying on one another , like bevel siding is "overlapped" what your doing or showing is staggering of the joints.


That stagger / overlap would also be used for wall and or roof sheathing , unless the sheets can be soldiered , applied with the 8' or 9' , yes 9' OSB is available, not CDX ,but OSB .

The reason to solder the sheets is a wording in the code book that "all edges must be nailed" so IF your wall are 9' or less it says time and blocking materials to soldier the sheets . IF code is to be met.


G/L PEG 

Sorry if that TMI , but after the floor your on to walls so you'll be asking then anyway so this is " heads up" info.

TMI = To Much Infomation BTW. 

[JRR]

Staggering is always best.  But if you absolutely can't stagger, you can improve the situation by adding/sistering a 2x4 securely to both sides of the joist that lies on the seam-joint.  This will add greatly to the landing area for the edges of the flooring sheets.  Then use lots of glue and screws/nails.

[glenn kangiser]

Jack Daniel's enhances staggering.

[PEG688]

Jack Daniel's enhances staggering.

GROAN !!!!!!!!!!!!! 

[glenn kangiser]

Sorry 'bout that, PEG.

[John_C]

Jack Daniel's enhances staggering.

I do NOT have a drinking problem!
I drink. I get drunk. I fall down.
No Problem.

from a very old T-shirt

[considerations]

Is there any serious down side to just using 2 x 6 T&G for the floor decking?

[PEG688]

Is there any serious down side to just using 2 x 6 T&G for the floor decking?

No other than  expense/ money.

2x6 T&G was a popular floor system in the 60 and 70's lumber was cheaper , you'd use beams generally 4x6's spaced 3' or 4' apart  so the span between beams was greater than today "normal" 16" , 19.2 , or 24" spacing , the 2x6T&G could span that added span ease.

It does squeak like heck when walked on , but the basic answer to your question is no there no serious down side , just different reason for using it. A entirely different floor system in many ways. Than Plywood / OSB T&G sheet goods.

You still could use the 2x6's there'd be some hiccups / odd thing /  with fitting it into the prescriptive code IRC 2006 , but nothing that couldn't be dealt with

[ced257]

 I know that I am new to this forum, but please stagger you joints!

[glenn kangiser]

ced257

[ced257]

 Thank you, Thank you! I am a carpenter in northwest Arkansas, fixing to start building my own cabin.

[glenn kangiser]

We'll be looking forward to seeing your project progress.