Hello:
My first post here! I’m usually over in Knots.
I will be laying 1×6 T&G ipe on the floor of a screened porch that I’m building. We will be using stainless trim head screws. Should we allow for any expansion by leaving a small gap? Or, can we just snug the boards together?
I saw a lot of comments about ipe, but most threads cover exterior decking.
Many thanks for your help.
Hastings
Replies
I've never installed t&g ipe' , but since it's pretty wide, I think I'd leave a small gap.
What does your supplier recommend? You should be able to get a spec sheet that includes spacing.
Shep:Thank you for your response.I got the Ipe from Lumbermax, whom I would recommend.There "CYA" gap is 3/16" but the unofficial answer is that many just butt the boards together.Regards,Hastings
In general, tongue and groove is designed to be fitted snugly together. That doesn't mean there couldn't be problems, but I would think the big distributors would have worked out how to mill the boards to minimize it.