I just bought T&G fir flooring to rebuild my badly deteriorating covered porch. I got it at a close-out sale and got random lengths. I would like to keep waste to a minimum and not have cut these boards off at every joist. Are there any suggestions out there to help me on my way? I thought about a subfloor but thought it would trap moisture. Or maybe placing joists closer together, as near as every 12″. I’m not sure what I should do, any help will be appreciated.
Thanks!
Replies
Do not use a ply subfloor.
the place wheere this wood will rot first is where it is in contact with other wood. Add subfloor and that will be all of it. Keep it open on the bottom and it can dry that direction as well as above and you reduce the places rot can start - the spots where it is in contact with the joists.
I eliminate butt joints as well because that end grain will wick up water and stay wet to be rot seeds. I use gorilla glue in the T&G joints to keep water out of there.
What you might do to decrease your waste is to biscuit the butt joints together with gorilla glue which would also help seal them. Try to place such joints away from higher traffic areas and away from antricipated wetter zones.
Of course, use PT framing and seal coat all six sides first before installing. I see fir floors on porches and decks lasting a minimum of fifteen years with little help. Keep it sealed and breathable and you could get a lifetime.
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Go get yourself a section of gutter and two end caps. The larger commercial stuff will give you a lot more room for your lumber. Put it on horses, fill with whatever preservative you're using. Instant dip tank. Cost you ten bucks.
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