flooring option?

Started by das fisch, November 16, 2010, 05:08:40 PM

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das fisch

we were thinking of using either t&g or shiplap 1x8 or 1x10 pine for a lower cost, and rustic flooring option at our new camp.
has anyone done this or similar? obviously the t&g would be blind nailed much like traditional hardwood flooring, the shiplap would be face nailed which is fine with us. we'd still use rosin paper backing and poly a few times.

John Raabe

Done over a solid subfloor with a slip layer as you mention, I think either one could go down pretty well and probably look fine.

These are wide boards and can be expected to shrink and object to lying down flat. Such movement can be reduced by stabilizing the Temp and moisture content as close as possible to the final interior climate. Square edges and even T&G to some extent will open up gaps for the accumulation of "stuff". When clean you may be looking down at the slip layer so a flat black finish here will work the best.
None of us are as smart as all of us.


MountainDon

One thing to remember, as Don_P has pointed out in another thread, wood shrinks and the wider the plank/board the wider each gap will be. That's one reason why hardwood floors use narrow strips; more strips = more spaces/joints and each one will be smaller than what you have when wide boards are used. Also the wider the board the more likely and the more noticeable the cupping will be. Not saying don't do it, just saying be aware.

He suggested storing the wood inside over a winter if possible to ensure it being as dry as possible. He noted that hardwood is cried down into the single digits, whereas regular lumber gets down to 19% moisture and is called dry. More moisture at installation = more shrinkage.
Just because something has been done and has not failed, doesn't mean it is good design.

rocking23nf

Also I find it really hard to find pine that doesnt warp after a few days of purchase. How about some cheap laminate flooring, like 99 cents a square foot stuff.


das fisch

thanks for the feedback. maybe I put too much emphasis on low cost, this is definitely not top priority. just thought the look would be better suited. in no way would i be caught putting laminate in... sorry.


UK4X4

why not hit up your local architectural recyclers for some old floor boards
rustic looking and dried out for 50 years !

I also find the new stuff from box stores warps if not nailed down imediatly !