I’ve made a little 8x8x12′ (peak) shed for DW’s electric kiln. On pier blocks; short 6×6 ACQ posts, 2×8 ACQ joists, and 3/4″ ACQ ply decking. Varies from 6-18″ clear from ground; will NOT be underpinned. Steel studs, rafters and roof; Hardi walls
Single room is sealed as tight as foam will make it; will always run a dehumidifier when vents are not open and kiln is firing (pre-firing drying of pieces).
I will put old brick on the floor in a herringbone pattern, and sweep sharp sand into all the joints and edges to lock it up a bit. Brick (100+ years old; our old chimneys) has been stored outside for years; it is damp. After the install, I’ll run the dehumidifier for a while
QUESTION:
Should I put #15 tarpaper on the floor first? Poly seems like it would be too slippery for dry-laid brick. I’m thinking about moisture/humidity coming up from the ground – this is GA, after all.
Any input on this??
Forrest
Replies
Since I know nothing about the firing of clay objects, I assume the object of the dehumidifier is to provide as low a ambient humidity level as possible in the kiln shed.
Further, I assume the brick's purpose is to provide a fire proof floor surface (and perhaps some ambiance).
I think #15 felt might be a little light to withstand the rigors of the dry laid brick installation, I would have a tendency to use #30. Piffin probably knows yet another grade of felt which is still heavier.
Once the bricks are laid and the sand swept into the joints, there should not be a lot of movement of the bricks, so abrasion of the felt probably becomes a moot point.
"2x8 ACQ joists" - assuming #2, SYP, and an 8' open span: you have exceeded the minimum requirements for a 50 lb live / 10 dead load floor by a considerable amount; max span to meet 50/10 = 11'11" on 16" ctr, 10'0" on 24" ctrs. Floor should not have any trouble carrying the weight of the brick.
Others will chime in soon.
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
"I think #15 felt might be a little light to withstand the rigors of the dry laid brick installation, I would have a tendency to use #30. Piffin probably knows yet another grade of felt which is still heavier."My goodness! You knew what I was thinking before I thought of looking at this thread!
Now where is that thread of Cloud's about ESP type stuff....
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
Just figured a more experienced roofer would know all the options in felt!
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
Another thought.
Might also makes some gains in lowering humidity from the ground by laying 6 mil poly under the shed and weight it down with gravel.
The job will not be perfect since the shed is already in place, but you should get some reduction in ground moisture rising into the flooring.
What you do not want to do is close the bottom of the joists with a VB. The joists need air circulation under the shed.
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
A couple plies of 30# felt would handle that sand better - or go to a roofing supplier if one is near and get some 43# base sheet
Better yet - spare no expense to keep her happy - use some ice and water shield. The kids will love helping with that stuff!
;)
Welcome to the
Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime.
where ...
Excellence is its own reward!
Found a small sample roll of Grace Tri-Flex 30 in the barn from somewhere - used it. Got the solid bricks down; I'll cut all the triangles tomoroow.
Forrest